Improved management of aphid-vectored barley yellow dwarf virus in small grains.
PI(s): Herbert, Jr, David Ames
Investigators:
Abstract: Field studies are underway to evaluate grain aphid populations, strain and occurrence of BYDV in the crop and in associated alternate weed hosts, timing and impact of various insecticide treatments, incidence and severity of BYDV and impact on yield. Five grain aphid pest species are being monitored using yellow, plastic pan traps located in and around the test field, above ground inspection of plant leaves, and below ground inspection of plant stems and roots. Virus is being evaluated in the crop and most common potential weed hosts using the ELISA technique on random samples taken each 6-8 weeks throughout the season. Both seed and foliar insecticide applications are being evaluated for impact on aphid populations, incidence of the disease and impact on crop yields. Results have revealed a new aphid pest species, the rice root aphid, as a potential major source of virus. Pan traps appear to provide a better indication of the species present and their relative abundance, compared with plant and soil samples. About 21 alternate virus hosts have been identified and show positive for the strains also found in the crop. Both seed and well-timed foliar insecticide treatments have provided significant reductions in the incidence and severity of the virus, and increased yields.
Description:
Commodities: Wheat
Resources: Agricultural Experiment Station Facilities, Graduate Assistantship Opportunities, State-Owned Vehicles
Disciplines: Integrated Pest Management
Audiences: Agribusiness, Commodity Groups, Extension Agents, Government Agencies, Producers, Researchers
