Towards efficient multi-scale methods for monitoring sugarcane aphid infestations in sorghum

Authors: Elliott, Norman - Norm; ROYER, TOM - Oklahoma State University; BREWER, MICHAEL - Texas Agrilife Research; SEITER, NICHOLAS - University Of Arkansas; GILES, KRISTOPHER - Oklahoma State University; KNUTSON, ALLEN - Texas A&M University; MCCORNACK, BRIAN - Kansas State University; BACKOULOU, GEORGES - Oklahoma State University

Submitted to: International Congress of Entomology
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 9/25/2016
Publication Date: 9/29/2016
Citation: Elliott, N.C., Royer, T.A., Brewer, M.J., Seiter, N.J., Giles, K.L., Knutson, A.E., Mccornack, B.P., Backoulou, G.F. 2016. Towards efficient multi-scale methods for monitoring sugarcane aphid infestations in sorghum [abstract]. 2016 XXV International Congress of Entomology; September 25-30, 2016, Orlando, FL. #3382.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: We discuss approaches and issues involved with developing optimal monitoring methods for sugarcane aphid infestations (SCA) in grain sorghum. We discuss development of sequential sampling methods that allow for estimation of the number of aphids per sample unit, and statistical decision making relative to an economic threshold. We also discuss the application of multispectral remote sensing for detecting and monitoring SCA infestations at the sub-field, field, and multi-field scales. We explore various sampling strategies including tally threshold per plant, presence/absence infested sample unit, and enumerative tally threshold per sample unit. We also explore the use of airborne multispectral remote sensing data subjected to spatial pattern analysis as an approach to monitoring SCA infestations. Although results described here are preliminary, they indicate that cost and time efficient methods for monitoring SCA infestations for pest management purposes can be developed using the methodologies described in the presentation.