Research Topic – Crop Protection
OVERVIEW
Three parts to the research
Assist growers to gain familiarity with new crop protectants
Develop/adapt a crop monitoring program
Investigate the potential of biocontrol agents for mealybug and mite control
JUSTIFICATION
Discussed at 2023 Pineapple Think Tank
Weaknesses – reliance on broad spectrum chemicals, updating technology and methods
Threats – Chemical access, environmental pressures
Discussed at CQ Regional Priority Setting Study Group
#1 Regional priority was salinity, consensus achieved on reprioritisation to crop protection
Nematode, symphylid and mite control and monitoring (later added mealybug due to concern over loss of older crop protection chemistry)
OBJECTIVES
The aim of this research is to assist growers in developing a more sustainable crop protection toolbox, that is moving towards an integrated pest management (IPM) approach.
OUTCOMES
Increase the growers experience and understanding of newer crop protection chemistry, delivery of information on sustainable pest management strategies to slow the onset of resistance to available chemistry and explore the potential of biocontrol agents.
