The subject of this thesis "The effect of cereal stubble on Helicoverpa armigera(Hubner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) activity in early season cotton(Gossypium spp.)" is a direct result of consultation with the Cotton Research and Development Corporation (CRDC), Queensland Department of Natural Resources and Mines (DNR&M) and

Australian cotton growers. These stakeholders sought a scientific explanation for the

observed reduction in the use of disruptive insecticides in cotton when it was sown into

cereal stubble. Lower pest activity had been observed when cotton was sown into wheat

(Triticum. spp) stubble compared to conventionalIy planted cotton. This is significant

because it provides a possible low~cost, environmentally friendly method of controlling

pests in early season cotton without the use of disruptive insecticides.