Abstract Detail

Ecology

Hayes, Daniel [1], Cantley, Jason [1], Jordon-Thaden, Ingrid [2], Martine, Chris [1].

A successful Solanum spp. (Solanaceae) greenhouse growth model using integrated pest management.

Research greenhouse collections of Solanum are notoriously prone to pest infestations that often require the use of pesticides for sustained growth and pest management. The use of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) systems as an alternative to pesticide use is not well-documented for Solanum. With the aim to grow Solanum for studies in reproductive biology and systematics without the use of heavy pesticides, an IPM system was implemented in our small Rooke Research Greenhouse in 2013. Most of our study species are native to subarid tropical habitats of northern Australia, but species from the Neotropics and temperate North America are also included in the collection. The number and density of individuals has varied depending on current research projects, but the greenhouse has supported nearly 400 individuals at its peak. Most study plants are maintained for more than twelve months and experience continuous growth. With the focus on control, not eradication, practices aimed to reduce pest establishment, reproduction, and dispersal have been successfully implemented. Biological control through the use of natural enemies—predators and parasites—of common pests, alongside cultural, mechanical, and physical controls have been carefully studied and adjusted for effectiveness and longevity. Observation of the beneficial insect and target pest population levels and seasonality has aided in establishing an economically and labor friendly IPM system. Plant growth and maintenance has been successful through active management of an IPM plan. Common pests are still present, and likely always will be in low numbers, but a vigilant and adaptive IPM plan focused on maintaining a sustainable predator-prey balance should continue to support our research agenda with few limitations.

1 - Bucknell University, Biology Department, 1 Dent drive, Lewisburg, Pa, 17837, USA
2 - University of California Berkeley, 1001 Valley Life Sciences Building, Berkeley, CA, 94720, USA

Keywords:
none specified

Presentation Type: Poster
Session: P, Ecology Section Posters
Location: Exhibit Hall/Savannah International Trade and Convention Center
Date: Monday, August 1st, 2016
Time: 5:30 PM This poster will be presented at 6:15 pm. The Poster Session runs from 5:30 pm to 7:00 pm. Posters with odd poster numbers are presented at 5:30 pm, and posters with even poster numbers are presented at 6:15 pm.
Number: PEC018
Abstract ID:426
Candidate for Awards:Ecological Section Best Undergraduate Presentation Award