Author
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PANTOJA, ALBERTO |
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Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only Publication Acceptance Date: 6/10/2007 Publication Date: N/A Citation: N/A Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Because of its geographical isolation and climatic constraints, Alaska agriculture is considered relatively free of diseases and insect pests. However, since 1973, the winter temperatures in Alaska have increased by 2-3 C'. It is logical to assume that continued global climate change could produce conditions that are more favorable to insect development or new or emerging pests in the state. This work reports on the insect pest associated to agricultural settings in Alaska. Pest surveys were conducted from 2003 to 2006 in interior Alaska and the Matanuska Valley. Peony (Paeonia spp.) is affected by thrips, Lygus borealis Kelton, and L. punctulatus (Zelterstedt). Brassica sp. is effected by a complex of insects including root maggot (Delia spp.), aphids (Macrosiphum sp.), and diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella [L.]). Lettuce production is effected by various species of aphids and flea beetles (Chrysomelidae). Insects associated with potato include various species of aphids [Myzus persicae (Sulzer), Macrosiphum sp.], leafhoppers [Macrosteles fascifrons (Stål) and Balclutha punctata (F.)], and click beetles (Hypnoidus spp. and Selatosomus sp). Arguments on whether these represent new or emerging pests for Alaska will be presented. |
