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Seedlings insects (Psylliodes chrysocephala, Phyllotreta nemorum, Delia radicum, Agriotes lineatus)

(Psylliodes chrysocephala, Phyllotreta nemorum, Delia radicum, Agriotes lineatus) are among the most important pest threatening OSR. In all European countries >85% of OSR area was seeded with neonicotinoids treated seeds (Germany, Latvia, Finland use close to 100% treated seeds). Seed treatment (ST) is the most effective way to apply selective insecticides to crops and target specific (pest and virus) threats. The post-emergent spraying insecticides of crops is less effective, less targeted and requires 2-3 treatments. Hence this is more costly to the farmer, and has a greater impact on the environment. The temporary ban on 3 neonicotinoid insecticides as seed treatment will impact the future development of IPM for OSR and other field crops. EMPHASIS will investigate potential alternative seedling methods for the management of seedling insects (BCAs, cultural approaches, chemicals) and develop a preventative and safe strategies for honey bees and oilseed growers.

Management approach

For Improved chemical control: Identification of potential alternative seedling insect control methods, and development of preventative and safe strategies for honey bees and oil seed rape growers.

Solution proposed by EMPHASIS

For Improved chemical control: Guidelines for seedling insects containment in oilseed rape (PU)

Contact person/organisation

Inga Gaile (IAS)