Syngenta Crop Protection UK Ltd
Bruchid Beetle alert on-line
20/05/2009
A new on-line forecasting system will alert bean growers to the risks of Bruchid Beetle attack and the optimum timing for control. A pilot version of Syngenta BruchidCAST will be evaluated by growers this season, as part of the Defra LINK project to develop more effective controls for the damaging pest.
)
Growers must be alert to rising temperatures triggering Bruchid Beetle activity. BruchidCAST gives valuable extra days early warning
PGRO research has confirmed results from France that the key danger period is when two consecutive days with temperatures above 20°C trigger female beetles into a frenzy of sexual activity and egg laying in the developing crop. BruchidCAST, sponsored by HALLMARK ZEON, will give up to five-day advance warning of suitable conditions, enabling growers to schedule insecticide applications more effectively. A simple traffic-light system warns when treatment may be required.
)
)
Bean growers are missing out on valuable export opportunities when Bruchid Beetle damage ruins crops, warns Mark Bullen
Syngenta Food Chain Manager, Mark Bullen, reports damage to bean seed from Bruchid Beetle larval feeding is a primary reason for UK crops failing to meet lucrative export standards. “We now have a far better understanding of the pest and the application timing to achieve improved control. BruchidCAST could give a vital early warning of beetle activity to optimise spray timing.”
The system also includes a localised five-day forecast of conditions suitable for spraying, to help growers schedule applications. Mr Bullen highlights that Syngenta trials, as part of the Defra/LINK project, has shown that HALLMARK ZEON application using the angled Syngenta Potato nozzle can achieve the necessary spray penetration to target all insect pests low down in dense bean crops using lower water volumes. “This can enable faster spraying operations, for more timely applications, along with improved leaf coverage and spray retention on the crop to achieve better results.”
Anthony Biddle of PGRO reports any damage reduction in the growing crop must be achieved by reducing egg laying by female beetles. “The timing of the spray is therefore critical if adults are found in the crop when beans have developed the first pods on the lowest trusses, but only after the temperature has reached 20°C on two consecutive days. A second spray should be made 7-10 days later,” he advises. “Risk forecasting could prove a significant step forward in helping growers to asses the potential threat to their crops.”
Bean growers who would like to take part in the evaluation of BruchidCAST this season should click on ‘Your local contact’ to register with their Syngenta Area Manager for further information.
Click here for more information on the Bruchid beetle and the ongoing LINK project
