Student Poster Display
Plant-Insect Ecosystems
Student
Student Competition
Emile Dayara Rabelo Santana, Ph.D. (she/her/hers)
PhD Student
University of Nebraska
Piracicaba-SP, Sao Paulo, Brazil
Andrea Rilakovic
PhD candidate
University of Nebraska - Lincoln
North Platte, Nebraska
Jeffrey A. Golus
Research Manager Plant Science
University of Nebraska
North Platte, Nebraska
Milos Zaric
University of Nebraska
North Platte, Nebraska
Julie Ann Peterson
Professor
University of Nebraska
North Platte, Nebraska
When considering pest control, it is essential to determine the most efficient application method, in addition to ensuring that the chosen product is effective. Currently, the control of western bean cutworm Striacosta albicosta (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in corn during the tasseling stage is predominantly accomplished through aerial application of insecticides. Another method used in Nebraska is chemigation, which involves applying insecticides using an overhead irrigation system. However, there is still limited information regarding which method is the most effective for managing S. albicosta in corn. Understanding this can enhance the effectiveness of applied products and provide producers with precise information for successful S. albicosta management. The hypothesis for this study is treatments applied via aerial application are more effective than those applied via chemigation. The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of two application methods for controlling S. albicosta 1st and 3rd instar larval stages under laboratory controlled conditions. Both application methods were performed using the commercial products Vantacor (chlorantraniliprole), Brigade (bifenthrin), and Elevest (chlorantraniliprole + bifenthrin) diluted to the recommended concentrations and applied to corn leaves. Using spray chambers aerial application was simulated to deliver 18.7 L/ha (2 GPA), while chemigation was applied at 1.26 cm-ha and 3.14 cm-ha (0.2 and 0.5 ac-in). After application, corn leaf disks were infested with S. albicosta larvae and assessed for mortality at 16, 24, 36, and 48 h. Understanding the advantages and limitations of each application method is crucial for effective control of the S. albicosta in corn.