Author
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KLEIN, MICHAEL |
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Submitted to: Society of Invertebrate Pathology
Publication Type: Abstract Only Publication Acceptance Date: 9/2/1996 Publication Date: N/A Citation: N/A Interpretive Summary: Technical Abstract: Restrictions on the use of conventional chemical pesticides, and an emphasis on development of integrated pest management techniques, has resulted in an opportunity for expanded usage of microbial pesticides. Some biologically based materials can be applied with the same application equipment utilized for conventional pesticides. However, greater use of microbials will require a better understanding of factors influencing their efficacy, and an appreciation by applicators of problems in handling living organisms. Many microbials are inactivated by uv-light and desiccation, and need to be removed from the soil or grass surface quickly. In addition, soil pests by definition are located somewhere below the surface, and pesticides need to reach those levels to be effective. Sub-surface application resolves those problems and reduces the amount of water which is otherwise needed to move these products. Although sub-surface equipment is used in New Zealand, similar machines have not been adopted elsewhere. Improvements in the operation of sub-surface equipment and attempts to demonstrate increased efficacy when using them are still proceeding. The use of autodissemination techniques is also being explored. Adult rhinoceros beetles and cockchafers have been used to transport virus and fungal pathogens to breeding sites for subsequent larval control. Autodissemination may also be effective against the Japanese beetle, Popillia japonica in situations where larval habitats are inaccessible. It is hoped that new techniques and a better understanding of the interactions between insect pests and their pathogens will lead to a greater utilization of microbial products. |
