Control - Insect Consultancy

CONTROL

Biological control
The grubs of the Garden chafer are well controlled by the use of the insect-parasitic nematode Heterorhabditis bacteriophaga. Second and third instars are the most susceptable. Presently the nematodes are mass-reared and in the market from 2000 onwards. At the end of July or the beginning of August they can be applied with suitable spraying equipment or simply with a watering-pot. The application rate is 500.000 per square meter.
Spraying equipment for distribution of nematodes is limited to certain conditions. Nematodes are susceptable to dryness and direct sunlight (UV). Hence application should be done at dusk or a cloudy sky. Insufficient soil moisture can seriously reduce nematode efficacy so artificial rain is often needed. The long-lasting presence of the nematodes on treated areas shows that nematodes have multiplied successfully in the grubs. Due to the propagation and the winter-persistance, a perennial protection of turf against grubs is expected. The field efficacy of nematodes against the Cock chafer and Summer chafer is currently being investigated.

The succes of biological control with the parasitic nematode depends on the composition of the grub species. Susceptable species are the Garden chafer and to a somewhat lesser extend also the grubs of Hoplia philanthus, Serica brunnea and Euchlora dubia. Before applying nematods a specialist is needed for a proper identification of the grub. Aphodius species are susceptable but do most of their damage in the cooler season. Nematodes prefer soil temperatures above 15°C.
An effective way of control of Cock chafer has not yet been found. It is generally advised to rain and roll the sward regularly. Biological control with insect parasitic nematodes is still under research, however without results so far. In Switzerland the a parasitic fungus (Beauveria bassiana) has been used giving varying results. In Northern Italy trials have been made with nettings to prevent the chafers perform the mating flight and foliage feeding. Application is limited to cash crop like tree nurseries and orchards.

Chemical control
A few chemical compounds are known for their use against white grubs. By Dutch law no chemical compound is allowed against white grubs. Generally the efficacy of chemicals applied against white grubs in turf grasses is not very high. The use of chemical control is dissuaded using biological control with the parasitic wasp Tiphia femorata.