FlyIPM - Integrated Control of Root-Feeding Fly Larvae Infesting Vegetable Crops (ERAnet C-IPM)

The aim of the proposed project is to improve the management of root-feeding fly larvae infesting outdoor vegetable crops using an integrated approach (IPM). The key pest insects are Delia radicum, D. floralis, D. antiqua, D. platura and Psila rosae and all considerably reduce crop yield and quality if not managed effectively.

We will improve the management of these pests by 1) assimilating and synthesising information on pest life-cycles and on monitoring and forecasting approaches to improve integration of control methods; 2) developing methods to reduce the likelihood of adult insects finding and/or infesting susceptible crop plants; 3) developing and refining methods for biological control of larval and adult insects with entomopathogenic fungi (EPF) and nematodes; 4) integrating existing and newly-developed methods of control into IPM strategies and 5) disseminating information to a community of stakeholders to improve pest management at field and farm level. This will reduce the need for, and improve the performance of, insecticidal methods of control, increase the quality of produce, minimise waste both pre- and post-farmgate and reduce insecticide use and the resulting adverse effects on the environment and human health.

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