A multi-targeted approach to management of fruitspotting bugs – major pests in tropical and subtropical horticulture in Australia

Abstract

Fruitspotting bugs (FSB) Amblypelta nitida Stål and Amblypelta lutescens lutescens Distant (Hemiptera: Coreidae) are major native pests in subtropical and tropical horticultural crops in Australia, and key pests in avocado. Until now, using a single targeting approach, namely broad-spectrum insecticides, has been the only management option for growers. However, this approach is not sustainable in the long-term. A single strategy approach from different research teams has also not been able to find a solution, and therefore a multi-target approach is needed. In March 2011, a multi disciplinary collaborative project commenced. Team members included state government agencies from New South Wales and Queensland, the University of Queensland, BioResources Pty. Ltd., and private consultants. Major components of the management strategy under investigation are the following:
1. Chemical control

2. Monitoring and trap cropping

a. Trap cropping and monitoring using alternative host and highly susceptible

cultivars

b. Pheromone traps

3. Biological control

a. Investigation of biological control agents (ecology and biology)

b. Mass-rearing of FSB and biological control agent

4. Integrated Pest Management (IPM) case studies NDASH demonstrations on commercial farms

5. Area Wide Management (AWM) NDASH management tested and coordinated on an area- wide-scale

6. Industry adoption

The project has made progress in all different components, and progress results will be presented. Different new management tools will become available at different times with new chemicals most likely to be the first new tool. The project is guided by industries including avocado, macadamia, lychee and papaya, passionfruit, and custard apples, with the avocado and macadamia industries being the major contributors.