IPM Lessons From the Quest to Contain New Zealand’s Worst Vertebrate Pest
A new case study in the Journal of Integrated Pest Management examines management of the brushtail possum, a major vertebrate pest in New Zealand, and the IPM lessons to be learned from those efforts.
Here We Go Again: Another Invasive Pest in Florida Citrus
The mealybug species Nipaecoccus viridis, known as the lebbeck mealybug, is originally from Asia and was first found in Florida back in 2009, but in late 2018 it was found infesting citrus groves in the state. The author of a new report in the Journal of Integrated Pest Management discusses the implications of its arrival and the management options that are currently available and under evaluation.
Gaga for Gum: Study Shows Sticky Mixture Distracts Fruit Fly Pest
A food-grade gum substance shows promise as a new tool for managing the invasive spotted-wing drosophila. The flies don't get stuck, but the scent interferes with their reproductive behavior, and the gum can last up to three weeks in the field.
Eastern Grape Leafhopper: Not a Picky Eater, But Only Has Eggs for Grapes
A new guide in the Journal of Integrated Pest Management profiles the eastern grape leafhopper and outlines a variety of IPM methods for managing the common pest of North American vineyards.
Study Shows Elevation Affects Fly’s Use as Natural Enemy of Invasive Weed
In Nepal, the gall-inducing eupatorium gall fly (Procecidochares utilis) is deployed as a biological control agent against the invasive weed Ageratina adenophora. A new study by researchers at Tribhuvan University and the Feed the Future Innovation Lab for Integrated Pest Management shows size and abundance of galls induced by the fly are influenced by elevation, knowledge that can help in fine-tuning P. utilis-based biocontrol efforts.
Making a Case for Safer Ways to Fight Rice Pests in the Greater Mekong
A new report in the Journal of Integrated Pest Management shares the successes and lessons learned from an advanced biological control-based IPM program that is helping rice growers in China, Laos, and Myanmar manage pests in more environmentally and economically sustainable ways.
USA National Phenology Network Aids Management of Pest Insects With Life-Stage Forecast Maps
It's easier to manage an insect pest if you can predict where and when it's likely to show up, rather than trying to react after it appears. The USA National Phenology Network's "Pheno Forecast" maps offer daily updates that model the temperature conditions necessary for a dozen forest insect pests. A new article in the Annals of the Entomological Society of America showcases the tool, part of a new special collection on geospatial analysis of invasive insects.
A People Problem and Plant Disease: The Economics of Pest Management in Citrus Greening
Citrus greening disease is seriously hindering citrus production in the United States, but generating widespread adoption of the best integrated pest management practices among growers is a challenge, especially when livelihoods are on the line. Recognizing the strong economic factors at play in management decisions will help improve plans for increasing IPM adoption.
Integrated Pest Management Pays for Midwestern Watermelon Growers
Entomologists at Purdue University have developed a reliable and cost-effective scouting technique for striped cucumber beetle (Acalymma vittatum) in watermelon fields. Researchers working with watermelon growers say the method could significantly reduce the unnecessary use of insecticides to manage the pest.
More Than Wheat to Eat: New Zealand’s Wheat Bug Has a Taste for Brassicas, Too
The wheat bug Nysius huttoni is a significant pest of wheat and cereal crops as well as a variety of brassica plants, and it is widely distributed in New Zealand. In a new profile in the Journal of Integrated Pest Management, two New Zealand researchers offer guidance on IPM practices for managing the wheat bug while minimizing potential nontarget impacts.
Battling Bed Bugs and German Cockroaches Requires Cooperation and Continuous Integrated Pest Management Efforts
A new paper shows the benefits of building-wide IPM for reducing indoor pests in low-income, multi-family housing.
People Matter: Why the Human Factor Is Essential for Successful Integrated Pest Management Programs
A new paper in the Journal of Integrated Pest Management highlights the importance of people in successful integrated pest management programs.
Study: More IPM Knowledge Could Help Leafy Amaranth Farmers in East Africa
Leafy amaranth contributes to farmers’ livelihoods and food security in East Africa. A new study points to a need for training in integrated pest management to help these farmers better manage insect pests.
Large-Scale Study Points to Simpler Trap for Monitoring Brown Marmorated Stink Bugs
Tested in more than 100 locations across the U.S., a clear sticky-panel trap proves effective in attracting brown marmorated stink bugs, putting an easier-to-use tool in the hands of growers and IPM professionals for monitoring populations of the invasive pest.
Pecan Nut Casebearer: New Guide Provides IPM Options
Pecan is one of the few plants native to North America that is now an important horticultural crop. One of its most significant pests, however, is the pecan nut casebearer. A new guide in the open-access Journal of Integrated Pest Management profiles the pecan nut casebearer and outlines management methods for it.
Millet Production Is On the Rise, and So Are the Pests That Eat It
Millet is a staple crop in Africa and Asia and increasingly common elsewhere, as demand for whole-grain products continues to rise. At least 150 insect species are known to feed on millet, and a new profile in the open-access Journal of Integrated Pest Management highlights the biology and management options for several of the most significant ones.