Integration of Physical and Chemical Tactics for Managing Systena frontalis [F. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)] at Ornamental Nurseries

Authors: Werle, Christopher; Adamczyk, John; Sampson, Blair; Goblirsch, Michael

Submitted to: Subtropical Agriculture and Environments
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 12/6/2024
Publication Date: N/A
Citation: N/A

Interpretive Summary: The Red-headed Flea Beetle [RHFB] is native to the central and eastern U.S. and has become a costly pest of containerized nursery plants. We tested the use of long-lasting insecticidal netting (LLIN) secured over rims of pots using four different plants: azalea, hydrangea, Itea, and rose. Bi-weekly feeding damage ratings were assigned to overhead digital images of each plant, with mean flea beetle damage scores used to test differences among treated vs. untreated control plants over time. While there were no differences in mean feeding damage ratings between treated and untreated control plants, there were lower damage ratings for one LLIN treatment during the last 2 months of the experiment, providing evidence for a reduction in damage. These data show the potential for LLIN as an RHFB management tool that will help nursery producers control this important pest.

Technical Abstract: The Red-headed Flea Beetle [Systena frontalis (F.); RHFB] is native to the central and eastern U.S. and has become a costly multivoltine pest of containerized nursery plants. We tested discs of long-lasting insecticidal netting (LLIN) secured over rims of plant containers in spring of 2023, using four species of host plants: azalea (Rhododendron sp.), Hydrangea paniculata, Itea virginica, and Rosa sp. Bi-weekly feeding damage ratings were assigned to overhead digital images of each plant by a panel of observers, with mean flea beetle damage scores used to test differences among treated vs. untreated control plants over time. While there were no significant differences in mean feeding damage ratings between treated and untreated control plants, there were lower damage ratings for one LLIN treatment during the last 2 months of the field trial, providing evidence for a potential reduction in damage from a second generation of flea beetles. These data show the potential for LLIN as an RHFB management tool, and with several improvements in experimental design, this research will help nursery producers and researchers.