R420 Sustaining Neonicotinoids (LINK)
Contractor :
Aim: To strengthen the scientific framework for combating insecticide resistance in aphids, primarily exemplified by Myzus persicae, and follows work on project R250. This project will take a broad perspective on the range of chemicals available for
Industry Challenge
Neonicotinoids are used to primarily target aphids in the UK. Many aphid species transmit Potato Virus Y (PVY), with varying efficiency, but the peach-potato aphid (Myzus persicae) is the most efficient vector. However, the widespread use of neonicotinoids in protecting crops such as sugar beet, oilseed rape, cereals brassicas, as well as potatoes has raised concerns over the development of resistance. Careful vigilance is essential to address these risks and safeguard the contribution of neonicotinoids and other novel aphicides to aphid pest management
Collaboration
Bayer, British Beet Research Organisation, Certis, HDC, HGCA, Nufarm, Rothamsted Research and Syngenta
Aims and Approach
This project will further develop approaches for monitoring changes in response to neonicotinoids, and will characterise the conditions under which resistance is most likely to be expressed and selected.
The objectives are as follows:
- The incorporation of new non-neonicotinoid insecticides (pymetrozine and flonicamid).
- Analysis of possible fitness costs associated with neonicotinoid resistance.
- Systematic evaluation of how neonicotinoid dose-rates, timing of exposure and mode of application (seed treatment vs. foliar) influence resistance risks.
- Pilot work on key aphid targets other than M. persicae.
Reports and Key Words