Integration of Boll Weevil Biological Control by Inoculative/augmentative Releases of the Parasite Catolaccus grandis in Short Season Cotton

Edgar G. King, K.R. Summy, J.A. Morales-Ramos, and R.J. Coleman


 
ABSTRACT

It is technically feasible to suppress the boll weevil, Anthonomus grandis grandis Boheman, by propagation and inoculative/augmentative release(s) of the exotic selective parasite, Catolaccus grandis (Burks). Failure of C. grandis to establish in the United States is not viewed as an impediment to this approach. Emphasis is placed on negating damage by F3 and F4 boll weevil immatures through parasitization (killing) of F1 and F2 third instars and pupae. Areawide releases of parasite should neutralize the effects of pest immigration and parasite emigration and are projected as being more effective than field-by-field releases (treatments) . The narrow- row, short-season cotton-production system is conducive to the parasite augmentation approach and boll weevil suppression. Shortening the season preempts damage by the F(5) generation and limits the number of boll weevils successfully overwintering, particularly if a rigorous areawide stalk destruction/ plowdown program is adhered to following harvest. Substitution of parasite releases for chemical insecticides to control the boll weevil spares predators and parasites, which are then available to attack other pests, thereby further potentially reducing chemical usage.



Reprinted from 1993 Proceedings Beltwide Cotton Conferences pp. 910 - 914
©National Cotton Council, Memphis TN

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Document last modified Sunday, Dec 6 1998