Progress 02/07/03 to 09/30/05
Outputs
(N/A)
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Mbata, G.N., Shapiro Ilan, D.I. 2005. Laboratory evaluation of virulence of heterorhabditid nematodes to plodia interpunctella hubner (Lepidoptera: pyralidae). Environmental Entomology. 34:676-682.
- Shapiro Ilan, D.I., Stuart, R.J., Mccoy, C.W. 2005. Targeted improvement of steinernema carpocapsae for control of the pecan weevil, curculio caryae (horn) (coleoptera: curculionidae) through hybridization and bacterial transfer. Biological Control. 34:215-221.
- Shapiro Ilan, D.I., Lewis, E.E. 2004. Potential for application of infected hosts in microbial control. Society for Invertebrate Pathology Annual Meeting Proceedings. p.48.
- Bai, Cheng, Shapiro-Ilan, David, Gaugler, Randy, Yi, Shu-xia. 2004. Effect of entomopathogenic nematode concentration on survival during cryopreservation in liquid nitrogen. Journal of Nematology. 36:281-284.
- Bai, C., Shapiro Ilan, D.I., Gaugler, R., Hopper, K.R. Stabilization of beneficial traits in heterorhabditis bacteriophora through creation of inbred lines. Biological Control. 2005. 32:220-227.
- Shapiro Ilan, D.I., Dutcher, J.D., Hatab, M. 2005. Recycling potential and fitness in steinernematid nematodes cultured in curculio caryae. Journal of Nematology. 37:12-17.
- Shapiro Ilan, D.I., Cottrell, T.E., Gardner, W.A. 2004. Trunk perimeter applications of beauveria bassiana to suppress adult curculio caryae (coleoptera: curculionidae). Journal of Entomological Sciences. 39:337-349.
- Perez, E.E., Lewis, E.E., Shapiro Ilan, D.I. 2004. Effect of application method on fitness of entomopathogenic nematodes emerging at different times. Journal of Nematology. 36:534-539.
- Shapiro Ilan, D.I., Stuart, R.J., Mccoy, C.W. 2005. Characterization of biocontrol traits in the entomopahogenic nematode heterorhabditis mexicana (mx4). Biological Control. 32:97-103.
- Shapiro Ilan, D.I., Fuxa, J.R., Lacey, L.A., Onstad, D.W., Kaya, H.K. 2005. Definitions of pathogenicity and virulence in invertebrate pathology. Journal of Invertebrate Pathology. 88:1-7.
- Cottrell, T.E. 2005. Predation and cannibalism of lady beetle eggs by adult lady beetles. Biological Control. 34:159-164.
- Cottrell, T.E. 2004. Suitability of exotic and native lady beetle eggs (coleoptera: coccinellidae) for development of lady beetle larvae. Biological Control. 31:362-371.
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Progress 10/01/03 to 09/30/04
Outputs
1. What major problem or issue is being resolved and how are you resolving it (summarize project aims and objectives)? How serious is the problem? What does it matter? Pecan is an important horticultural crop that can suffer severe losses in yield due to insect and mite damage. Annual pecan production value in the US averages approximately 260 million dollars; up to 90% of the crop can be lost due to insect damage. Therefore, profitable husbandry of pecan is not feasible for most pecan growers without the ability to control insect and mite pests. The overall goal of this project is to provide economically and environmentally sound pest management strategies for control of arthropod pests of pecan. Specific objectives are: Determine the potential of biological control agents to suppress pecan insect pests. Develop improved non-biological methods for pecan pest suppression that are consistent with cultural practices to minimize alternate bearing. Examine population
ecology and behavior of pecan pests as affected by biotic and abiotic factors. The first objective will focus on the potential of entomopathogenic nematodes and fungi to suppress the pecan weevil. In addition, the ecology of lady beetles inhabiting pecan will be studied with regard to inter- and intraspecific interactions and their impact upon aphid populations. The second objective will focus on examining efficacy of chemical insecticides applied to target-specific areas, and a kaolin- based pesticide alternative for management of certain pecan pests. The third objective will examine stink bug movement across agricultural landscapes because they repeatedly colonize pecan throughout the season. Additionally, emergence/post-emergence behavior of adult and larval pecan weevils will be studied to better time application of control measures. This project addresses several components of National Program 304 (Crop Protection and Quarantine) Action Plan. These include investigations of
efficient utilization of beneficial organisms used in biological control, development of selective chemicals and other biologically-based strategies (Component V), as well as elucidation of pest and natural enemy biology and ecology, (Component II). Obtaining the objectives will reduce the potential for environmental contamination but still provide for profitable production of pecans from commercial operations. Potential new products to be developed include new approaches for biological control of major pecan pests, improved monitoring of pest populations, and low-impact chemical control methodology. Large and small farmers throughout the pecan-growing region will benefit from improved pest management strategies and reduced exposure to class I pesticides. New pest control technology may also benefit farmers in other commodities. Scientists (entomologists and pest management specialists) will benefit from basic and applied information on biological control and from ecology and
behavior studies of pecan pest species. Consumers will benefit from production of high-quality, affordable pecans. Environmental benefits will apply to the general public through reduced chemical inputs. 2. List the milestones (indicators of progress) from your Project Plan. Milestones are as follows: Determine potential for microbial control of pecan weevil. Elucidate ecology of lady beetles in the pecan orchard in reference to competition and impact on aphid populations. Determine effect of chemical insecticide sprays targeted to the pecan trunk in relation to pecan weevil suppression. Examine a kaolin-based pesticide alternative for pecan aphid control. Elucidate seasonal movement of stink bugs across agricultural landscapes. Characterize diel periodicity and movement of pecan 3. Milestones: A. List the milestones that were scheduled to be addressed in FY 2004. How many milestones did you fully or substantially meet in FY 2004 and indicate which ones were not fully or
substantially met, briefly explain why not, and your plans to do so. The milestones in FY2004, and their status are as follows: Determine potential for microbial control of pecan weevi. Milestone was substantially met. Elucidate ecology of lady beetles in the pecan orchard in reference to competition and impact on aphid populations. Milestone was substantially met. Determine effect of chemical insecticide sprays targeted to the pecan trunk in relation to pecan weevil suppression. Milestone was substantially met. Examine a kaolin-based pesticide alternative for pecan aphid control. Milestone was substantially met. Elucidate seasonal movement of stink bugs across agricultural landscapes. Milestone was substantially met. Characterize diel periodicity and movement of pecan weevil. Milestone was substantially met. B. List the milestones that you expect to address over the next 3 years (FY 2005, 2006, & 2007). What do you expect to accomplish, year by year, over the next 3 years under
each milestone? Three year plan. Determine potential for microbial control of pecan weevil. FY2005 Laboratory testing of genetic improvement methods and potential chemical synergists with insect-killing nematodes. Field test strain and formulation effects on efficacy of insect-killing fungi. FY2006 Further laboratory testing of genetic improvement methods for strain enhancement. Field-testing of synergists, new formulations and amendments for enhancing insect-killing nematodes and fungi. FY2007 Complete laboratory work on genetic improvement of nematodes. Final field-testing of soil amendments, chemical synergists, and formulations to enhance nematodes and fungi. Elucidate ecology of lady beetles in the pecan orchard in reference to competition and impact on aphid populations. FY2005 Field assays of attractants and concomitant impact upon aphid populations. Manuscript preparation on impact of exotic lady beetle on native lady beetle in pecan orchards. FY2006 Field attractant
assays and augmentation of lady beetle populations in pecan orchards against pecan aphids. FY2007 Large-acreage field trials for implementation of attractants and augmentation for enhancing lady beetle populations against pecan aphids. Determine effect of chemical insecticide sprays targeted to the pecan trunk in relation to pecan weevil suppression. FY2005 Continue replicated field trial. FY2006 Completion of project with data analysis and presentation to customers; manuscript preparation. Examine a kaolin-based pesticide alternative for pecan aphid control. FY2005 Field tests in orchards to examine kaolin for aphid control. FY2006 Data analysis, presentation to customers and manuscript preparation. Elucidate seasonal movement of stink bugs across agricultural landscapes. FY2005 Completion of data analysis and manuscript preparation. Characterize diel periodicity and movement of pecan weevil. FY2005 Examination of diel periodicity of adult and larval pecan weevil and flight by adults
into the pecan canopy. FY2006 Continue examination of diel periodicity of adult and larval pecan weevil. Continue examination of flight by adults into the pecan canopy. FY2007 Final data analysis, presentation of results to customers, including peer researchers, and manuscript preparation. 4. What were the most significant accomplishments this past year? A. Single most significant accomplishment during FY2005: Invasive Lady Beetle Resists Fungal Infection: Mechanisms that allow for successful introduction and establishment of biological control agents are not fully understood. ARS scientists from the Southeastern Fruit and Tree Nut Research Laboratory, Byron, GA discovered that the recently introduced Multicolored Asian lady beetle was highly resistant to a fungal disease that attacked a native lady beetle species in pecan orchards. The scientists hypothesize that resistance to new diseases in new habitats may prove advantageous to some introduced biological control agents thus
allowing them to compete with native biological control agents. B. Other Significant Accomplishments: Using Fungi to Control the Pecan Weevil: Alternative non-chemical control measures for the pecan weevil (a key pest of pecans) are needed. ARS scientists from the Southeastern Fruit and Tree Nut Research Lab, Byron, Georgia and the National Center for Agricultural Utilization Research, Peoria, Illinois, in cooperation with W. Gardener, University of Georgia, conducted field trials to determine the potential of the environmentally friendly insect-killing fungus (called white muscadine fungus) to suppress adult pecan weevils. The scientists found the fungus to be capable of causing high levels of mortality in adult pecan weevils, and that trunk sprays with a new oil formulation may be particularly promising. Research efforts are now focusing on enhancing persistence of the insect-killing fungus to develop a long-lasting viable biological control option for the pecan weevil.
Stabilization of Beneficial Traits in Biological Control Agents Through Creation of Inbred Lines: Continuous or routine culturing of organisms used for biological pest suppression often leads to detrimental genetic changes and loss of utility. A method to overcome this problem was developed. Creation of genetically homogenous inbred lines was found to prevent trait deterioration in the beneficial nematode, Heterorhabditis bacteriophora. This method can also be adapted to prevent trait loss in other biological control agents thereby increasing the efficacy and reliability of environmentally friendly pest management methods. C. Significant activities that support special target populations: Information was derived and disseminated that helps small farmers and homeowners to better control pecan weevils and to do so with less pesticide usage. D. Progress Report opportunity to submit additional programmatic information to your Area Office and NPS (optional for all in-house ("D") projects
and the projects listed in Appendix A; mandatory for all other subordinate projects). In-house Projects: Progress made toward control of pecan arthropod pests. Research is progressing on how to effectively use nematodes and fungi to control pecan weevil in the soil before getting into the tree, and in characterizing the ecology of important pecan pests including pecan weevil, stink bugs, and aphids. Subordinate Progress Report: This report serves to document research conducted under a trust agreement (6606-22000-011-02T) between ARS and H&T Alternative Controls, LLC (under CRADA 58-3K95-0-848) "Application of Entomopathogenic Nematodes in Infected Hosts: A Novel Approach to Biological Control@. Additional details of research can be found in the report of the parent CRIS 6606- 22000-011-00D Control of Pecan Arthropod Pests. The utility of insect- killing nematodes as environmentally friendly biopesticides can be expanded by developing improved methods of nematode production and
application. Scientists at the Southeastern Fruit and Tree Nut Research lab (Byron GA), H&T Alternative Controls, LLC (Louis Tedders, Perry, GA), and Virginia Tech University (Ed Lewis, Blacksburg, VA) have developed novel methodology to produce and apply pesticidal nematodes in their infected insect host cadavers; a new nematode mass rearing procedures has been developed and optimized, methodology for storing, packaging and shipping nematode-infected hosts has been developed, and greenhouse tests indicated that nematode application in infected hosts is superior to conventional methods of application. This research promises to expand the use of insect-killing nematodes as biological control agents thereby reducing reliance on chemical insecticides. This report serves to document research conducted under a trust agreement (6606-22000-011-01T) between ARS (Byron Georgia) and USDA- CSREES (NRI Grant #2002-01974) "Trait Deterioration in Entomopathogenic Nematodes: Characterization and
Stabilization@ in collaboration with R. Gaugler (Rutgers University), B. Adams (University of Florida) and the ARS unit in Newark Delaware (K. Hopper). This report also serves to document the research conducted under the connected subcontracts (specific cooperative agreements 6606-22000-011-03S and 6606-22000-011-4S) . Additional details of research can be found in the report of parent CRIS 6606-22000-011-00D Control of Pecan Arthropod Pests. Entomopathogenic nematodes can be potent natural insecticides, but deterioration of beneficial traits during mass production and laboratory culture can reduce the utility of these organisms. Thus, Scientists at the ARS Southeastern Fruit and Tree Nut Research lab (Byron, GA) and Beneficial Insect Introduction Research Lab (Newark, DE), Rutgers University, and University of Florida, are characterizing genetic deterioration of insect-killing nematodes and research methodology to overcome the problem. Trait deterioration (in (virulence, heat
tolerance, reproduction)) was observed in mixed (foundation) nematode populations during 15 culture cycles. Trait deterioration was deterred in inbred line nematode populations. This research promises to provide understanding regarding trail loss in biocontrol agents and methodology to overcome the problem, which will thereby expand the use of insect- killing nematodes and other biopesticides. This report serves to document research conducted under a trust agreement (58-6606-3-222) between ARS (Southeastern Fruit and Tree Nut Research lab, Byron Georgia) and Georgia Agricultural Commodity Commission for Pecans "Research Toward Microbial Control of the Pecan Weevil: Field Tests and Novel Combinations" in collaboration with University of Georgia (Dr. Wayne Gardner). This report also serves to document the research conducted under the connected subcontracts (specific cooperative agreements 6606-22000-011-14S). Additional details of research can be found in the report of parent CRIS
6606-22000-011-00D Control of Pecan Arthropod Pests. Progress to date stems from field trials, which indicated that a heat tolerant nematode strain may provide superior control of the pecan weevil; additionally, laboratory test indicated combination of nematodes with other pathogens generally result in antagonism, but combination of a particular fungus (Metarhizium) may offer potential for synergism. This report serves to document research conducted under a Reimbursable agreement (6606-22000-011-07R) between ARS (Byron Georgia) and the University of Georgia Research Foundation (under SARE Grant #20033386- 1013009) "Integrating Biological Control into Pecan Weevil Management: a sustainable approach in collaboration with W. Gardner and W. Hudson (University of Georgia), and M. Harris (Texas A & M). This report also serves to document the research conducted under the connected subcontracts (specific cooperative agreements 6606-22000-011-08S, 6606- 22000-011-09S, 6606-22000-011-11S, and
6606-22000-011-13S). Additional details of research can be found in the report of parent CRIS 6606-22000- 011-00D Control of Pecan Arthropod Pests. Insect-killing fungi hold promise for control of the pecan weevil, a key pest of pecans. Research is required, however, to enhance virulence and persistence of the fungus. The objectives of this research are to enhance fungal persistence through improved strains, formulation, and soil amendments. Progress to date consists of initial laboratory screening of superior fungal strains and formulations. These results will be applied to field studies to determine the best approach to using fungi for pecan weevil suppression. This report serves to document research conducted under a reimbursable agreement (6606-22000-011-12R) between ARS (Byron Georgia) and the National Science Foundation "Infection decisions by insect-parasitic nematodes in collaboration with Edwin Lewis (Virginia Tech University) and Jim Campbell (USDA-ARS, Manhattan, KS).
Additional details of research can be found in the report of parent CRIS 6606-22000-011-00D Control of Pecan Arthropod Pests. Insect-killing nematodes can be potent natural biopesticides capable of suppressing a range of economically important pests. Information is needed to determine how and why some nematodes infect insects and others do not. The objective of this study is to determine cues produced by the host insect that motivate the nematodes to infect. Progress to date consists of developing appropriate bioassay techniques, and initial determination of the effects of host exudates on nematode infection. As compounds that increase nematode infectivity are identified the research promises to expand the use of nematodes as biopesticides. 5. Describe the major accomplishments over the life of the project, including their predicted or actual impact. Major accomplishments over the life of the project: The current project has only been in effect 17 months to date, and thus it is too
early to report any major accomplishments over the life of the project. However, the current project is an extension of CRIS 6606- 22000-010-00D for which the primary accomplishments were: a) discovery that pecan aphids are a major threat to the economic profitability of pecan, rather than being minor pests, and that the subsequent development of control strategies has greatly reduced aphid associated losses linked to alternate bearing, b) development of a superior trapping system for monitoring pecan weevils, stinkbugs, and hickory shuckworms, c) development of biological control strategies and technology for aphids, d) development of cover crop recommendations to control spring aphid populations without pesticides, e) development of information necessary to effectively register and use chemical pesticides, f) discovery that pecan weevil adults are highly susceptible to entomopathogenic nematode infection, g) an introduced species of lady beetle that helps control pecan aphids is
not as susceptible to a natural fungal pathogen as a native lady beetle species. This accomplishments address several components of National Program 304 (Crop Protection and Quarantine) Action Plan including investigations of efficient utilization of beneficial organisms used in biological control, development of selective chemicals and other biologically-based strategies (Component V), as well as elucidation of pest and natural enemy biology and ecology, (Component II). 6. What science and/or technologies have been transferred and to whom? When is the science and/or technology likely to become available to the end- user (industry, farmer, other scientists)? What are the constraints, if known, to the adoption and durability of the technology products? Major accomplishments over the life of the project: The current project has only been in effect 17 months to date, and thus it is too early to report any major accomplishments over the life of the project. However, the current project
is an extension of CRIS 6606- 22000-010-00D for which the primary accomplishments were: a) discovery that pecan aphids are a major threat to the economic profitability of pecan, rather than being minor pests, and that the subsequent development of control strategies has greatly reduced aphid associated losses linked to alternate bearing, b) development of a superior trapping system for monitoring pecan weevils, stinkbugs, and hickory shuckworms, c) development of biological control strategies and technology for aphids, d) development of cover crop recommendations to control spring aphid populations without pesticides, e) development of information necessary to effectively register and use chemical pesticides, f) discovery that pecan weevil adults are highly susceptible to entomopathogenic nematode infection, g) an introduced species of lady beetle that helps control pecan aphids is not as susceptible to a natural fungal pathogen as a native lady beetle species. This accomplishments
address several components of National Program 304 (Crop Protection and Quarantine) Action Plan including investigations of efficient utilization of beneficial organisms used in biological control, development of selective chemicals and other biologically-based strategies (Component V), as well as elucidation of pest and natural enemy biology and ecology, (Component II). 7. List your most important publications in the popular press and presentations to organizations and articles written about your work. Cottrell, T. E. and D. I. Shapiro-Ilan. 2003. Impact of an endemic entomopathogenic fungus on lady beetles in pecan orchards. Proc. SE Pecan Growers Assoc., 96:53-60. Log # 158948 Cottrell, T. E. and G. S. Hodges. 2004. Scale insects on pecan. The Pecan Grower, v. 15(4) p.16-17. Log # 167230. Cottrell, T. E. 2004. Importance of pecan weevil management during a light crop year. The Pecan Grower, v.16(1) p.18-19. Log # 167243. Shapiro-Ilan, D., Cottrell, T., Gardner, W., Reilly, C.,
Hotchkiss, M., Wood, B. Update on research toward microbial control of the pecan weevil. 2003. Proceedings of the Southeastern Pecan Growers Association (96th Annual Convention) p. 103-108. Log # 148459. Shapiro-Ilan, D. I., Jackson, M. A., Reilly, C. C., Hotchkiss, M. W. Mixing insect diseases to kill pecan weevils. 2004. Pecan Grower v. 15(3) p.10-13. Log # 160807.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- Shapiro Ilan, D.I. 2003. Microbial control of the pecan weevil, curculio caryae, (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Southwestern Entomologist Supplement. p.100-114.
- Shapiro Ilan, D.I., Lewis, E.E., Tedders, W.L., Son, Y. 2003. Superior efficacy observed in entomopathogenic nematodes applied in infected-host cadavers compared with application in aqueous suspension. Journal of Invertebrate Pathology. 83:270-272.
- Shapiro Ilan, D.I., Jackson, M.A., Reilly, C.C., Hotchkiss, M.W. 2004. Effects of combining an entomopathogenic fungi or bacterium with entomopathogenic nematodes on mortality of curculio caryae (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Biological Control. 30:119-126.
- Shapiro Ilan, D.I., Mizell, R.F., Cottrell, T.E., Horton, D.L. 2004. Measuring field efficacy of steinernema feltiae and steinernema riobrave for suppression of plum curculio, conotrachelus nenuphar, larvae. Biological Control. 30:496-503.
- Stuart, R.J., Shapiro Ilan, D.I., James, R.R., Nguyen, K.B., Mccoy, C.W. 2004. Virulence of new strains of the entomopathogenic nematode steinernema riobrave to larvae of the citrus root weevil diaprepes abbreviatus. Biological Control. v.30. p.439-445.
- Shapiro Ilan, D.I. 2003. Entomopathogenic nematode production. Society for Invertebrate Pathology Annual Meeting. p.37. Abstract.
- Nguyen, K.B., Shapiro Ilan, D.I., Stuart, R.J., James, R.R., Adams, B.J. 2004. Heterorhabditis mexicana n. sp. (heterorhabditidae: rhabditida) from tamaulipas, mexico, and morphological studies of the bursa of heterorhabditis spp. Nematology. 6:231-244.
- Cottrell, T.E., Shapiro Ilan, D.I. 2003. Susceptibility of a native and an exotic lady beetle (Coleoptera: (Coccinellidae) to Beauveria bassiana. Journal of Invertebrate Pathology. 84:137-144.
- Cottrell, T.E., Wood, B.W. 2003. Pecan weevil management: past, present and toward a future strategy. Southwestern Entomologist. 27:75-84.
- Lacey, L.A., Shapiro Ilan, D.I. 2003. The potential role for microbial control of orchard insect pests in sustainable agriculture. International Journal of Food, Agriculture, and the Environment. 1:326-331.
- Shapiro Ilan, D.I., Stuart, R., Mccoy, C.W. 2003. Comparison of beneficial traits among strains of the entomopathogenic nematode, steinernema carpocapsae, for control of curculio caryae (coleoptera: curculionidae). Biological Control. 28:129-136.
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Progress 10/01/02 to 09/30/03
Outputs
1. What major problem or issue is being resolved and how are you resolving it? Economic loss due to foliar and fruit feeding insects and mites are primary biological problems associated with the husbandry of pecan. Emphasis is on developing: a) novel or alternative methods of controlling these pests so as to reduce usage of synthetic chemical pesticides, and b) on developing improved integrated pest management strategies. 2. How serious is the problem? Why does it matter? Annual pecan production value in the US averages approximately 260 million dollars; up to 90% of the crop can be lost due to insect damage. Therefore, profitable husbandry of pecan is not feasible for most pecan growers without the ability to control insect and mite pests. To maintain profitability while also possessing safer pesticides or nonchemical tools for pest control requires more research. 3. How does it relate to the National Program(s) and National Program Component(s) to which it has
been assigned? This project addresses several components of the National Program 304 (Crop Protection and Quarantine) Action Plan. These include (a) understanding pest/host interactions and economic impact, (b) investigation of pest and natural enemy biology and ecology, (c) development of new and improved pest control technologies including production, delivery, and use of biocontrol agents, (d) assessment of component technologies for IPM systems. 4. What were the most significant accomplishments this past year? A. Single Most Significant Accomplishment during FY2003: Alternative non-chemical control measures for the pecan weevil (a key pest of pecans) are needed. ARS scientists from the Southeastern Fruit and Tree Nut Research lab, Byron Georgia, in cooperation with W. Gardener, University of Georgia, conducted field trials to determine the potential of the environmentally friendly insect-killing fungus (called white muscadine fungus) to suppress adult pecan weevils. The
scientists found the fungus to be capable of causing high levels of mortality in adult pecan weevils. Research efforts are now focusing on enhancing persistence of the insect-killing fungus to develop a long-lasting viable biological control option for the pecan weevil. B. Other Significant Accomplishments: Laboratory research indicated that a beneficial insect-killing nematode is highly virulent to adult pecan weevils, but the potential of this nematode species as an effective biological control agent varies among strains. Therefore, ARS scientists at the Southeastern Fruit and Tree Nut Research lab, Byron Georgia (in collaboration with C. McCoy, University of Florida) compared eight different strains of nematode for various traits important to biological control. Using a novel trait ranking system, the scientists identified the nematode strains most likely to succeed in suppressing the pecan weevil. These strains may represent a suitable environmentally friendly control strategy
to reduce or replace chemical insecticide use for pecan weevil suppression. Insect-killing nematodes, which are environmentally friendly biopesticides, are usually applied in water, but ARS scientists from Byron Georgia, in collaboration with HT Alternative Controls LLC. and E. Lewis (Virginia Tech University) hypothesized that superior pest control might be achieved if the nematodes are applied in their infected host cadavers. The scientists conducted greenhouse tests to compare the novel method of application in infected (mealworm) hosts to the conventional method of application of nematodes in water suspension. Relative to application using conventional methods, nematode application in infected hosts resulted in substantially greater control of important weevil pests. These results indicate great potential for an innovative application method in biological control that could be used for suppression of various insect pests. Lady beetles are primarily beneficial insects that eat
pest insect and mite species, but the exotically introduced multicolored Asian lady beetle has become a pest when it overwinters in homes and is suspected to negatively impact native lady beetle species. Studies were done by an ARS scientist at the Southeastern Fruit and Tree Nut Research lab, Byron, GA to determine the potential for predation by the exotic beetle upon native lady beetle species and vice versa. It was discovered that the exotic lady beetle can and does feed upon eggs of native lady beetle species but the native species do not feed upon eggs of the exotic species. These results suggest a possible mechanism through which an invading species was able to out compete already-established native species and thus provides insight for future release of exotic biological control agents. C. Significant Accomplishments/Activities that Support Special Target Populations: Information was derived and disseminated that helps small farmers and home owners to better control pecan
weevils and to do so with less pesticide usage. D. Progress Report: In-house Projects: Progress made toward control of pecan arthropod pests. Research is progressing on how to effectively use nematodes and fungi to control pecan weevil in the soil before getting into the tree, and in characterizing the ecology of important pecan pests including pecan weevil, stink bugs, and aphids. Subordinate Progress Report: This report serves to document research conducted under a trust agreement between ARS and HT Alternative Controls, LLC (under CRADA 58-3K95-0-848) "Application of Entomopathogenic Nematodes in Infected Hosts: A Novel Approach to Biological Control". Additional details of research can be found in the report of the parent CRIS 6606-22000-011-00D Control of Pecan Arthropod Pests. The utility of insect-killing nematodes as environmentally friendly biopesticides can be expanded by developing improved methods of nematode production and application. Scientists at the Southeastern
Fruit and Tree Nut Research lab (Byron GA), HT Alternative Controls, LLC (Louis Tedders, Perry, GA), and Virginia Tech Univeristy (Ed Lewis, Blacksburg, VA) have developed novel methodology to produce and apply pesticidal nematodes in their infected insect host cadavers; a new nematode mass rearing procedures has been developed and optimized, methodology for packaging and shipping nematode-infected hosts has been developed, and greenhouse tests indicated that nematode application in infected hosts is superior to conventional methods of application. This research promises to expand the use of insect-killing nematodes as biological control agents thereby reducing reliance on chemical insecticides. This report serves to document research conducted under a trust agreement between ARS (Byron Georgia) and USDA-CSREES (NRI Grant #2002- 01974) "Trait Deterioration in Entomopathogenic Nematodes: Characterization and Stabilization" in collaboration with R. Gaugler (Rutgers University), B.
Adams (University of Florida) and the ARS unit in Newark Delaware (K. Hopper). Additional details of research can be found in the report of parent CRIS 6606-22000-011-00D Control of Pecan Arthropod Pests. Entomopathogenic nematodes can be potent natural insecticides, but deterioration of beneficial traits during mass production and laboratory culture can reduce the utility of these organisms. Thus, Scientists at the ARS Southeastern Fruit and Tree Nut Research lab (Byron, GA) and Beneficial Insect Introduction Research Lab (Newark, DE), Rutgers University, and University of Florida, are characterizing genetic deterioration of insect-killing nematodes and research methodology to overcome the problem. Seven fresh nematode strains have been isolated from the wild and identified; beneficial traits(virulence and environmental tolerance) have been characterized in these populations, and research has been initiated to monitor these traits as the nematodes are repeatedly cultured in the
lab. This research promises to provide understanding regarding trail loss in biocontrol agents, and expand the use of insect-killing nematodes as biopesticides. This report serves to document research conducted under a specific cooperative agreement (58-6606-3-0213) between ARS (Southeastern Fruit and Tree Nut Research lab, Byron Georgia) and Rutgers University "Characterization of Trait Deterioration in Entomopathogenic Nematodes" in collaboration with R. Gaugler (Rutgers University). Additional details of research can be found in the report of parent CRIS 6606-22000- 011-00D Control of Pecan Arthropod Pests. Progress to date consists primarily of isolation of subject nematode populations and characterization of base population beneficial traits as well as trait status after five passages in vivo. This report serves to document research conducted under a specific cooperative agreement (58-6606-3-0212) between ARS (Southeastern Fruit and Tree Nut Research lab, Byron Georgia) and
University of Florida " Trait Deterioration in Entomopathogenic Nematodes" in collaboration with B. Adams (University of Florida). Additional details of research can be found in the report of parent CRIS 6606-22000-011-00D Control of Pecan Arthropod Pests. The first objective of this project has been completed; wild nematode populations were isolated and identified to species level. Five strains of Heterorhabditis bacteriophora were identified and 2 strains of Steinernema carpocapsae. This report serves to document research conducted under a specific cooperative agreement (58-6606-3-0214)between ARS (Southeastern Fruit and Tree Nut Research lab, Byron Georgia) and University of Georgia "Suppression of pecan weevil with entomopathogenic nematodes" in collaboration with W. Gardner (University of Georgia). Additional details of research can be found in the report of parent CRIS 6606-22000- 011-00D Control of Pecan Arthropod Pests. Progress to date stems from field trials, which
indicated that a high amount of irrigation and large treatment area is necessary to achieve moderate control of pecan weevils with an insect-killing nematode. 5. Describe the major accomplishments over the life of the project, including their predicted or actual impact. The current project has only been in effect five months to date, and thus it is too early to report any major accomplishments over the life of the project. However, the current project is an extension of CRIS 6606- 22000-010-00D for which the primary accomplishments were: a) discovery that pecan aphids are a major threat to the economic profitability of pecan, rather than being minor pests, and that the subsequent development of control strategies has greatly reduced aphid associated losses linked to alternate bearing, b) development of a superior trapping system for monitoring pecan weevils, stinkbugs, and hickory shuckworms, c) development of biological control strategies and technology for aphids, d) development
of cover crop recommendations to control spring aphid populations without pesticides, e) development of information necessary to effectively register and use chemical pesticides, f) discovery that pecan weevil adults are highly susceptible to entomopathogenic nematode infection, g) an introduced species of lady beetle that helps control pecan aphids is not as susceptible to a natural fungal pathogen as a native lady beetle species. 6. What do you expect to accomplish, year by year, over the next 3 years? FY2004: Methods to improve weevil suppression with insect-killing nematodes and fungi will be investigated (effects of species and strain, and soil amendments). The potential for synergistic interaction among microbial and other insect control strategies will be investigated. Insecticidal trunk sprays will be re-tested to determine efficacy against pecan weevil. Ecology and behavior of the pecan weevil will be further examined to determine diel periodicity of pecan weevil movement.
Interactions among co-occurring native and exotic aphid predators and pathogens in pecan orchards will continue to be examined. FY2005: A greater understanding of aphid natural enemy ecology will be obtained through elucidation of interactions with other predators and pathogens, and will assist growers in making management decisions. Potential synergistic agents (microbial or chemical) to improve pecan weevil control will be identified and field tested. Improvement of microbial control agents through genetic methods will be explored. Insecticidal trunk sprays will be re-tested to determine efficacy against pecan weevils. Importance of degree day accumulation by pecan weevil on adult emergence from soil will be examined. Further examination of a Kaolin-based pesticide alternative for aphid control. FY2006: If deemed feasible, a strategy to utilize microbial control agents (nematodes or fungi) to suppress pecan weevils will transferred to extension agents and growers. A greater
understanding of pecan weevil ecology will have been obtained and will assist growers in management decisions. If deemed feasible, a method to reduce pesticide use for pecan weevils through targeted trunk sprays will be transferred to extension agents and growers. If deemed, feasible, the use of a Kaolin- based pesticide alternative for aphid control will be transferred to extension agents and growers. 7. What science and/or technologies have been transferred and to whom? When is the science and/or technology likely to become available to the end- user (industry, farmer, other scientists)? What are the constraints, if known, to the adoption and durability of the technology products? Orchard managers were appraised via industry publications and grower educational meetings on how to enhance profits by being mindful of new weevil monitoring techniques and seasonal distribution of stink bugs across habitats surrounding pecan orchards. Technology on a novel method of applying
insect-killing nematodes in their infected hosts was transferred to a biological control producer through a CRADA and cooperation on a USDA-SBIR grant; a patent that facilitates this technology through formulation of the infected hosts was allowed. 8. List your most important publications in the popular press and presentations to organizations and articles written about your work. (NOTE: This does not replace your peer-reviewed publications listed below). Cottrell, T.E., Greene, J.K., Mizell,R.F., Yonce, C.E., Wood, B.W. Using pheromone traps to sample stink bugs in and around pecan orchards. Proceedings of the Oklahoma Pecan Growers Association. 2003. p.14-27. Shapiro-Ilan, D.I., Reilly, C.C., Hotchkiss, M.W., Wood., B.W. The beneficial insect-killing fungus, Beauveria bassiana, can overcome effects of fungicide sprays. Pecan Grower. 2003. v.14(4). p. 24-27. Shapiro-Ilan, D.I., Behle, R., McGuire, M.R., Lewis, E.E. Formulated arthropod cadavers for pest suppression. 2003. U.S.
Patent 6,524,601 B1.
Impacts
(N/A)
Publications
- PEREZ, E.E., LEWIS, E.E., SHAPIRO ILAN, D.I. IMPACT OF HOST CADAVER ON SURVIVAL AND INFECTIVITY OF ENTOMOPATHOGENIC NEMATODES (RHABDITIDA: STEINERNEMATIDAE AND HETERORHABDITIDAE) UNDER DESICCATING CONDITIONS. JOURNAL OF INVERTEBRATE PATHOLOGY. 2003. v.82. p.111-118.
- SHAPIRO ILAN, D.I., GARDNER, W.A., FUXA, J.R., WOOD, B.W., NGUYEN, K.B., ADAMS, B.J., HUMBER, R.A., HALL, M.J. SURVEY OF ENTOMOPATHOGENIC NEMATODES AND FUNGI ENDEMIC TO PECAN ORCHARDS OF THE SOUTHEASTERN US AND THEIR VIRULENCE TO THE PECAN WEEVIL (COLEOPTERA: CURCULIONIDAE). ENVIRONMENTAL ENTOMOLOGY. 2003. v.34. p.187-195.
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