Integrated approaches for flea beetle control - Economic thresholds, prediction models, landscape effects, and natural enemies

Researcher: Alejandro Costamagna, Tharshi Nagalingam, University of Manitoba, Hector Carcamo, Tyler Wist, Jennifer Otani, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, John Gavloski, MAFRD, Barb Sharanowski, University of Central Florida, Daryl Vermey, Manish Patel, Weather INnovations Consulting LP

Project Code: CARP CCC 2015.17

Final Report: May 2018

Summary: Researchers conducted several field studies in four ecoregions across the Canadian prairies to develop integrated approaches for flea beetle control for modern high- yielding canola varieties. The preliminary analysis of the results supports the 25% defoliation threshold as a valid management tool to control flea beetle populations. Detailed analysis of the economic threshold data is in progress. Significant associations between landscape structure and flea beetle abundance were found, and predator species attacking flea beetles were identified in the laboratory. Researchers found significant associations between flea beetle abundance, plant density and damage to canola plants, and between flea beetle abundance and weather parameters. This information can be used by growers to improve flea beetle monitoring and management, and diminish canola yield losses.

Click the links below to download a short version of the report, the full detailed long version of the report, or the related Canola Digest PDF.