4190. White wooly aphids

 

A white aphid infestation typically refers to the presence of woolly aphids, which are identifiable by their fluffy, white, waxy coating. These insects can cause damage to plants by sucking sap, leading to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and even branch dieback. Effective control methods include physical removal, natural predators, and various natural sprays. 

Here's a more detailed look:

Identifying a White Aphid Infestation:

• Woolly Aphids: These aphids are covered in a white, waxy substance, making them appear fluffy or cottony.

• Damage: Look for stunted growth, yellowing foliage, and dieback of branches.

• Other Signs: You may also see honeydew (a sticky substance) and sooty mold (a black, powdery fungus) on the plants.

• Location: Woolly aphids often colonize the bark of branches and around pruning cuts. 

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Control Methods:

• Physical Removal:

• Water Spray: A strong jet of water can dislodge aphids from plants, and they usually won't climb back on. 

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• Hand Removal: You can pick off aphids by hand, especially if the infestation is small. 

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• Natural Predators:

• Ladybugs, Green Lacewings, Birds: These insects and birds are natural predators of aphids and can help control their populations. 

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• Companion Planting: Certain plants can attract beneficial insects or repel aphids. 

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• Natural Sprays:

• Neem Oil: Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can be effective against aphids. 

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• Insecticidal Soap: Soapy water (1-2 teaspoons of dish soap per quart of water) can be sprayed on aphids. 

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• Horticultural Oil: Similar to neem oil, horticultural oil can suffocate aphids. 

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• Essential Oils: Some essential oils, like peppermint, clove, rosemary, and thyme, can be diluted and sprayed on plants. 

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• Other Methods:

• Garlic Spray: Garlic can be used to repel aphids. 

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• Diatomaceous Earth (DE): This powder dehydrates aphids, but be cautious as it can also harm beneficial insects. 

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• Vinegar: A vinegar and water solution (1:3) can be sprayed on aphids, but test on a small area first as it can harm plants. 

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• UPDATE:

• https://2010vets.blogspot.com/2025/07/4190-white-wooly-aphids.html

4189. PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS: Use tv mode for moving butterfly

 25 Jul 2025: Saw this Tawny Coster (Acraea terpsicore) sipping nectar at 3.11pm on the way to Singapore General Hospital. Very hot sunshine. It does not bother this small-sized butterfly.  It needs to survive, hence has to put up with "hot hot hot" weather!

Canon R5. Handheld. Tv mode. 105mm. 1/2000 sec, f/4, ISO 320

(Set ISO to AUTO first). 

 

 

4188. Me Time

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 This Sea lettuce or Meramong (Malay) is very well cared for by the gardener as evident by the beauty of the healthy blossoming flower at fruits. For the individual person, good health comes from spending time to take good care of your health and letting go of selfish demands for attention and entertainment from aquaintances. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4187. PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS: Bright sunshine at 4.25pm. Ang Mo Kio Fire Station

 SINGAPORE - 27 JUL 2025: 4.52pm.

 Ang Mo Kio Fire Station in Northeastern Singapore is one of 18 fire stations in Singapore that offers open house tours, typically on Saturday mornings.

Canon R5, HANDHELD

37mm, 1/80 sec, f/16, ISO 250  

 

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Photo 1

 

 

 

Photo 2 

Photo 2 is a better photo if you want to showcase "ANG MO KIO FIRE STATION" name and logo.

Record:
1. Date and time. 27 Jul 2025, 4.52am. 
2. Bright sunshine. Slight breeze.
3. Canon R5
4. AV mode, 37mm, 1/80 sec, f/16, ISO 250

UPDATE:

https://2010vets.blogspot.com/2025/07/4187-photography-tips-bright-sunshine.html

 

4186. A farming village in China - Wuhan - Zhangjiajie- Phonenix Towo

 

A prosperous farming village in China is a rural settlement where agriculture is the primary or significant source of livelihood for the majority of its residents.

 

These villages often feature traditional architecture, agricultural landscapes, and a strong sense of community tied to the cyclical rhythms of 

planting and harvesting. 

 

 

 Key Characteristics of Chinese Farming Villages:

• Agriculture as a Way of Life:
  Farming, whether through individual plots or cooperative efforts, forms the core of the village economy and daily life. 

• Traditional Architecture:
  Many villages retain traditional Chinese architectural styles, including tiled roofs, courtyards, and buildings constructed from local materials. 

• Community Focus:
  Life in these villages often revolves around communal activities related to agriculture, festivals, and social gatherings. 

• Challenges of Modernization:
  Some villages are experiencing a shift away from traditional farming as younger generations seek opportunities in urban areas, leading to potential labor shortages and abandonment of farmland. 

• Land Transfer and Agricultural Reform:
  There is a growing trend of land transfer, where farmers lease their land to agricultural companies or individuals, sometimes leading to increased income and improved livelihoods. 

• Economic Diversification:
  Some villages are exploring new industries like e-commerce and tourism to supplement or replace traditional farming. 

 

 

Examples of Farming Villages:

• Xiaogang Village (Anhui Province):
  Known as "China's No. 1 Rural Reform Village," Xiaogang gained prominence for its pioneering role in agricultural reform. 

• Shanhui Village (Shanxi Province):
  This village showcases the traditional way of life, with residents still engaged in farming and tofu production, although younger generations are leaving for cities. 

• Huaxi Village (Chongqing):
  Huaxi has become an award-winning village, demonstrating successful business transformation and increased income for residents. 

 

In essence, Chinese farming villages represent a blend of tradition and change, where agriculture remains a central element of life, but modernization and economic shifts are reshaping the rural landscape. 

 

A prosperous farming village seen from the coach during the Wuhan - Zhangjiajie tour, China, 12 Apr 2025

 

TO BUY PHOTO: shutterstock.com/g/toapayohvets

 

Update:

https://2010vets.blogspot.com/2025/07/4186-farming-village-in-china-wuhan.html

 

4185. Zhangjiajie cable car ride

 

 

Glasswalk on Tianmen Mountain 

 

 

 

 

The "Zhangjiajie chair ride" most likely refers to the Tianmen Mountain cable car and the Yangjiajie cable car in Zhangjiajie, China. These cable cars offer stunning views of the unique karst landscape, including the famous "Avatar mountains". 

Tianmen Mountain Cable Car:

• It is one of the longest cable car rides in the world, offering a 28-minute journey. 
• The cable car takes you up to Tianmen Cave, a natural archway in the mountain, and offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. 
• Some sections of the cable car ride are quite steep, with sharp inclines and swaying near the top, which may be challenging for those with a fear of heights. 

Yangjiajie Cable Car:

• This cable car is located in the Yangjiajie scenic area, which is known for its similar views to Yuanjiajie but is less crowded. 
• It provides access to the upper hiking trails in the area. 
• The one-way ticket price is CNY 76, and the round trip is CNY 152. 

Other notable points about Zhangjiajie:

• The Bailong Elevator is another popular way to ascend the mountains, offering a unique experience with its double-decker design and views of the surrounding landscape. 
• Zhangjiajie National Forest Park: is known for its towering sandstone pillars, including the "Avatar mountains" featured in the movie. 
• Visitors can also explore cliff-hanging walkways, glass skywalks, and other scenic areas within the park. 
• Tianzi Mountain: is another scenic area with breathtaking views and a cable car for descending. 
• The best time to visit Zhangjiajie is typically in the spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. 
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  Glasswalk 
  
   
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4184. PHOTOGRAPHY TIPS. A biking Grabfood rider. Use tv mode.

 A Grabfood rider near Crockford Tower hotel, Sentosa. 20 Jul 2025. 9am

Canon R5, tv mode, 105mm, 1/2000 sec, f/4.5, ISO 1600

TO BUY PHOTO:  shutterstock.com/g/toapayohvets

 

20 July 2025: 9 am. Crockford Tower Hotel (R).
Bright sunshine, blue sky, cool morning. Deserted downhill road near Crockford Tower which is an all-suite luxury hotel in Resorts World Sentosa.

Fresh air, gentle breeze swept my face. Deserted. Peaceful. No bird chirping. No butterflies or dragonflies but full of greenery. A tree with large clusters of pink bougainvillae greeted me "Good Morning". I was waiting to photograph the cyclists. Not your usual ones. The recreational well dressed in branded active wear cyclists.
 

I saw this motorcyclist. A Grabfood rider. He smiled when he zoomed down the hill slope to deliver the food. No time for hobbies like photography.  He has mouths to feed, bills to pay. He saw me, lens pointed at him. He smile radiated to his eyes. He was a happy gig worker. Self-employed. No bosses.

GrabFood delivers to Sentosa
 

GrabFood Delivery:

GrabFood delivers to various locations within Sentosa, including residential areas and popular spots like Tanjong Beach, Siloso Point, and Sentosa Cove. 

Pick-up Points:

Grab has established designated pick-up points in Sentosa, such as the one near Beach Station and Imbiah Lookout