Biocontrol with benefits: Enhancing sustainability by adding value

Authors: Shapiro Ilan, David; BLAAUW, BRETT - University Of Georgia; CHAVEZ, DARIO - University Of Georgia; DUNCAN, LARRY - University Of Georgia

Submitted to: Experiment Station Bulletins
Publication Type: Experiment Station
Publication Acceptance Date: 11/21/2018
Publication Date: 11/30/2018
Citation: Shapiro Ilan, D.I., Blaauw, B., Chavez, D., Duncan, L. 2018. Biocontrol with benefits: Enhancing sustainability by adding value. Sustainable Agriculture at UGA Newsletter. 2018(Fall):3-4.

Interpretive Summary: Implementation of a targeted biocontrol strategy that positively impacts other aspects of the orchard system (such as overall plant health and suppression of plant diseases/plant-parasitic nematodes) could be a powerful approach in establishing sustainable orchard practices. Our current Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) project builds and expands upon a previously funded Southern-SARE grant focused on peach orchard systems. Peachtree borer is a major pest of peaches and other stone fruit trees in the southeast and throughout the USA. Currently, methods of control for peachtree borer include the use of broad spectrum chemical insecticides, primarily chlorpyrifos. Due to severe environmental and regulatory concerns alternative methods of control must be developed and their impact on cropping system assessed. Our studies focus on integrating safe and effective biocontrol solutions into peach systems. Specifically, we are investigating the use of beneficial nematodes (also called entomopathogenic nematodes) for control of peachtree borer. These nematodes (unlike harmful plant parasitic nematodes) only attack insects or other arthropods and are safe to humans, plants and the environment. Our previous research indicated that entomopathogenic nematodes can control peachtree borer as well or better than chlorpyrifos. In our current project, we will explore whether use of entomopathogenic nematodes (when targeting peachtree borer) also reduces effects of harmful plant parasitic nematodes, root-feeding weevils, or Armillaria root rot. Results are relevant to both organic and conventional growers and will also be applicable to control of other insect pests in other cropping systems.

Technical Abstract: Implementation of a targeted biocontrol strategy that positively impacts other aspects of the orchard system (such as overall plant health and suppression of plant diseases/plant-parasitic nematodes) could be a powerful approach in establishing sustainable orchard practices. Our current Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education (SARE) project builds and expands upon a previously funded Southern-SARE grant focused on peach orchard systems. Peachtree borer, Synanthedon exitiosa, is a major pest of peaches and other stone fruit trees in the southeast and throughout the USA. Currently, methods of control for peachtree borer include the use of broad spectrum chemical insecticides, primarily chlorpyrifos. Due to severe environmental and regulatory concerns alternative methods of control must be developed and their impact on cropping system assessed. Our studies focus on integrating safe and effective biocontrol solutions into peach systems. Specifically, we are investigating the use of beneficial nematodes (also called entomopathogenic nematodes) for control of peachtree borer. These nematodes (unlike harmful plant parasitic nematodes) only attack insects or other arthropods and are safe to humans, plants and the environment. Our previous research indicated that entomopathogenic nematodes (especially Steinernema carpocapsae) can control peachtree borer as well or better than chlorpyrifos. In our current project, we will explore whether use of entomopathogenic nematodes (when targeting peachtree borer) also reduces effects of harmful plant parasitic nematodes, root-feeding weevils, or Armillaria root rot. Results are relevant to both organic and conventional growers and will also be applicable to control of other insect pests in other cropping systems.