2008 Annual Report
1a.Objectives (from AD-416)
To develop and formulate effective management strategies to reduce damages caused by insect pests to the tree fruit and vegetable crops.
1b.Approach (from AD-416)
Conduct laboratory and field experiments to gain understanding of behavior, ecology, physiology, genetics, and diseases of potato and tree fruit insect pests. Monitor and manage pest populations in crops. Documents SCA with WSU.
Insect pests of potato and tree fruits are a serious threat to the potato and fruit industry. Research collaboration has been established between ARS and Washington State University to design and conduct laboratory and field experiments to describe the biology and ecology of insect pests of potatoes and tree fruits. Also, experiments are being designed to develop effective monitoring program and management tools for insect pests of potatoes and tree fruits. Currently, a graduate student is looking at the biology and ecology of the potato psyllid to develop effective management strategies for this insect pest to reduce incidence of zebra chip, a new and damaging potato disease in North and Central America. National Program 304; Component III: Plant, Pest, and Natural Enemy Interactions and Ecology; Problem Statement A: Understanding the Complex Interactions.
ADODR statement: E-mail was the principal means of keeping in touch with off-site collaborators.