Grant Information
| Knowledge Area | Subject of Investigation | Field of Science | Percent |
|---|---|---|---|
| 216 - Integrated Pest Management Systems | 999 - Citrus, general/other | 1130 - Entomology and acarology | 100% |
We will construct synthetic calls that attract male psyllids and then develop and test a robust trap that can be used as a more sensitive method of monitoring for Asian citrus psyllid (ACP) than the current yellow sticky trap method. This would enable incipient infestations to be detected and targeted more precisely, reducing the use of broad spectrum insecticides. Management of the ACP (Diaphorina citri) is a key factor in controlling the citrus huanglongbing (HLB) disease in Florida. The only commonly used method for trapping and monitoring ACP is an unbaited visually attractive sticky trap. However, males are known to be acoustically attracted to duetting females. In searching for females to court, males move around the host plant, calling periodically. If a female replies to a call, the male moves towards her location, continuing to duet until he finds her.
This research relates directly to Objective 2. Detection and attraction: Develop chemical and acoustic detection and attraction systems for pest species and natural enemies: specifically develop trapping systems using floral-derived volatiles to monitor and/or eliminate pest populations and monitor dispersal of augmented parasitoids, detect acoustic signals produced by cryptic/hidden pests for targeted control, and improve detection efficiency through automation. Proof of principle was demonstrated with the use of laboratory instruments to detect and play back signals that were attractive to male Asian citrus psyllids. Afterwards a small microprocessor platform was developed to implement the same processes on an inexpensive computer that would fit into a trap. The new system is undergoing experimental testing.