BioControl (2002) 47, 101-113

M. Van de Veire, G. Sterk, M. van der Staaij, P.M.J. Ramakers and L. Tirry (2002)
Sequential testing scheme for the assessment of the side-effects of plant protection products on the predatory bug Orius laevigatus
BioControl 47 (1), 101-113
Abstract: This paper describes a number of test methods, to be used in a sequential scheme, for testing the side-effects of plant protection products on anthocorid bugs. Orius laevigatus was used as test species. A `worst case' laboratory method was developed for evaluating the effect on mortality of the nymphs and the reproduction of the adults. An extended laboratory method gives information on the effect of pesticides on adults under more natural conditions. A semi-field test is executed in small plots under field (glasshouse) conditions. Finally a field test simulates the conditions in a commercial crop. For harmful chemicals, both a laboratory and a semi-field persistence test was developed to determine the safety period after which the predatory bugs can be re-introduced in the greenhouse without being adversely affected. The total result of this sequential scheme should indicate whether, and with what restrictions, a particular pesticide can be implemented in IPM programs in which O. laevigatus is used for control of western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis). Twenty-two pesticides were tested including five fungicides, twelve insecticides and five acaricides. The fungicides captan, carbendazim, sulphur, thiram, tolylfluanid and the insecticides or acaricides pymetrozine, pyriproxyfen, tebufenozide and hexythiazox were harmless in the 'worst case' laboratory test and thus did not need further testing. Imidacloprid, diafenthiuron, lufenuron, tebufenpyrad, abamectin, pyridaben and bifenthrin were harmful in the semi-field test and should, in the tested concentrations, better not be used simultaneously with the predatory bug. The insecticide dichlorvos was found harmful but short-lived in the persistence test; it should be used before the introduction of the predatory bug O. laevigatus only when a safety period of 7days is respected. Pirimicarb was slightly toxic in the semi-field test but short-lived. In IPM programs this aphicide should be used at a low application frequency.
(The abstract is excluded from the Creative Commons licence and has been copied with permission by the publisher.)
Link to article at publishers website
Database assignments for author(s): Marc Van de Veire, Luc Tirry

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
biocontrol - natural enemies
health/environmental effects of pesticides
Research topic(s) for beneficials or antagonists:
resistance to pesticides

---

Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
	Frankliniella occidentalis
Orius laevigatus (predator)	Frankliniella occidentalis