On the radar. We recently received reports of cowpea aphid (aphis craccivora) activity in the northeast, particularly in paddocks near irrigated crops. Cowpea aphids are glossy black insects characterised by distinctive black and white legs. They
Watch for slugs post-rain. We've seen slug activity in the south-east despite this year's drier weather and slower start to rainfall across South Australia, though without reported crop damage. Slugs tend to thrive in paddocks with high moisture
Slugs. Slugs are emerging across SA, particularly across the South East and lower Eyre Peninsula after the late season break. Some black keeled slugs (Milax gagates) were observed under refuges that were put out as part of the GRDC Slug Modelling
Crucisoema plebejana) has been reported at Booleroo Centre feeding inside wheat grain. The caterpillars also produced some webbing, especially when disturbed. Cotton tipworm caterpillars are 5 millimetres to 12 millimetres long, and cream in colour
Liming and snails. We regularly receive reports of increased numbers of pest snails in paddocks after liming. This often raises questions about machinery moving snails or snail eggs with the lime. While this cannot be ruled out in some instances, it
Reviewing the daily egg production method (DEPM) to improve confidence in estimating spawning biomass for Snapper.
Predicting next year's insect pests. Finding invertebrates such as snails, slugs, European earwigs, weevils and vegetable beetles during harvest can inform monitoring for next season. Resident pests can live in paddocks and build up high populations
Spring is here – so are cabbage aphids. There have been recent reports of cabbage aphids (Brevicoryne brassicae) in dense colonies on canola. Aphids often attack stressed plants, and after this year’s dryer winter weather conditions there are
Look out for beneficials in your crops. With a warm start to spring, beneficials have been active. There are several beneficial predators and parasitoid species that prey on crop pests, which can have a significant impact on pest populations. You
Common stored grain pests. The PestFacts team has recently received various samples of stored grain pests, including minute mould beetles. These reports highlight the importance of ongoing vigilance and effective pest management to ensure the