Pectinase in the Saliva of Myzus Persicae (Sulz.) (Homoptera: Aphididae)

A chromatographic technique demonstrated the presence of the enzyme pectin polygalacturonase in saliva ejected by Mysus persicae (Sulz.). The amount per gram of salivary gland was estimated to be 2.4 × 10−3 gm., a concentration presumed adequate to hydrolyze pectin in the cell walls adjacent to the feeding puncture of this species of aphid.