Zhang, W. and S.M. Swinton
Presented at the All Scientist Poster Reception (2007-05-14 to 2007-05-14 )
The control of pests by their natural enemies represents an important ecosystem service that maintains the stability of agroecosystems and has the potential to mitigate pest control costs both to private producers and to society.
Problem
- Since 2000, soybean aphid (Aphis glycines) (SBA) has invaded central North America, reducing soybean yields and prompting farmers to spray 50% of soybean acreage.
- Natural enemies (e.g., Harmonia axyridis, Coccinella septempunctata, and Orius. insidiosus) can suppress SBA populations but many are susceptible to the same insecticides as SBA.
Research questions:
- How do natural enemies affect the economic threshold for control of soy aphid?
- What is the implied value of SBA suppression services?