Developing proactive approaches to Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in cotton production systems

Dr Simone Heimoana; Williams, Sandra

Date Issued:2024-08-31

Pesticide targets – we used our expertise in IPM and information on environmental impacts of chemical use to understand potential drivers and examined alternative approaches that considered the future risks (availability, resistance, export markets) of control options. The analysis scrutinised chemicals that are the prime contributors to high insecticide levels in the environment. We worked with NSW DPIRD and the CCA to understand the national context across farming systems and considered spatial/geographical patterns. The highest risk pest-chemical use cases (Fipronil, Sulfoxaflor, Phorate) informed a review of alternative control options that included in its scope digital tools to improve, for example, pest detection and monitoring. The landscape analysis can be used to inform regional/AWM approaches.

Mirid management – we reviewed past mirid research in cotton and other crops and considered current mirid management practices in the systems context. We carried out damage and compensation experiments to look for evidence of crop tolerance to mirids. Modelling approaches using historical data or data from other crops were used to see if they could assist with predicting influxes and informing management decisions. We identified research gaps and areas that required core science research.

Impact of insecticides and miticides on predators, parasitoids and bees in cotton – we assessed the value of work to date using impact analysis and considered its potential application across commodities. We considered potential research partners and contributors who may have an interest in and benefit from this work. We reviewed the methodology with respect to efficiencies and impact including assessing its potential translation into other crops.

We investigated mirid damage research gaps – we carried out three field experiments to better understand the mirid number: crop damage relationship as well as the interaction that mirids have with lucerne and how that could affect damage levels in cotton. This work assisted in validating mirid spray thresholds. We also carried out mirid population experiments and assessed boll and lint damage and yield and maturity. This experiment answered the question about the effect of early or below threshold sprays on mirid population buildup.

Shield bugs are of concern to the industry and we improved our understanding of shield bug ecology and management in preparation for shield bug incursions. A Hemiptera identification workshop trained staff to identify BSMS more reliably. Heimoana attended the Annual Plant Surveillance Workshop to gain new knowledge on BMSB surveying techniques. We attempted twice to work with consultants to monitoring shield bugs in Gwydir cotton fields. Regretfully both attempts failed as objectives and time commitments differed.

Future work towards the Cotton Pest Management Guide Impacts on beneficials guide focused on novel compounds for sucking and lepidoptera pest control. Pesticides tested for one season were tentatively placed into Table 6 of the CPMG.

Inside Cotton