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143 results found
  • New plan to boost grains biosecurity
    Pests, 06 Nov 2024
    New plan to boost grains biosecurity

    A national biosecurity plan has been launched at the Australian Grains Industry Conference in Melbourne in July. It has a range of targeted activities and investments to safeguard the $32 billion grains industry and protect growers’ businesses from exotic pest threats. The plan’s development was led by Plant Health Australia (PHA), the coordinator of the Australian plant biosecurity system, with support from Grain Producers Australia (GPA), GRDC and Grain Growers Ltd.

  • A clean approach to pest management
    Pests, 29 Oct 2024
    A clean approach to pest management

    Non-chemical methods for protecting stored grain include good hygiene to prevent and control insects. GRDC Grain Storage Extension national coordinator Chris Warrick says research by the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries’ post-harvest research team shows the most effective time to undertake a whole-of-site clean-up is in the winter months, when insect breeding and migration are lowest. He also recommends a structural treatment post-clean-up in silos and equipment using a product such as diatomaceous earth (DE) – a fossilised algae dust that dehydrates and kills insects without residue issues.

  • New pathways for nematode control explored
    Pests, 25 Sep 2024
    New pathways for nematode control explored

    Research into root lesion nematode is investigating new options for control while identifying the prevalence of different species in Western Australia. Murdoch University PhD researcher Dr Rhys Copeland has identified that chemicals common to both tolerant and susceptible cereals had differing effects on nematodes, depending on their concentration.

  • Long-term monitoring ‘vital’ for slug management
    Pests, 22 Aug 2024
    Long-term monitoring ‘vital’ for slug management

    Dr Michael Nash shares some lessons on slug management for the season

  • Trials give insight into nematode options
    Pests, 14 Aug 2024
    Trials give insight into nematode options

    West Prairie grain producers Roger and Lisa Gwynne have hosted trials and field days for more than 40 years. Roger says his father Alex worked closely on nematode research over many years with Queensland Department of Primary Industries officer Nev Douglas and with Professor John Thompson. Roger says he has learned a lot from hosting the trials, including the importance of rotating out of wheat and choosing less- susceptible varieties.

  • Science pins elusive Dongara weevil
    Pests, 12 Aug 2024
    Science pins elusive Dongara weevil

    The Dongara weevil has been recently scientifically described and confirmed as a new species through morphological and molecular analysis. It poses a significant threat to canola crops causing substantial economic losses. Its elusive nature makes it difficult to manage, but GRDC supported research is learning more about its habits and distribution to inform management strategies.

  • Testing for nematodes just as important as nutrients
    Pests, 05 Aug 2024
    Testing for nematodes just as important as nutrients

    While many growers diligently carry out soil tests to measure nutrient levels, the opportunity to test for nematodes and other pathogens, such as crown rot, is often overlooked. This complacency poses a major threat to crop productivity.

  • Fall armyworm stays around to wreak more damage
    Pests, 21 Jun 2024
    Fall armyworm stays around to wreak more damage

    This summer season has been one of the most destructive and distressing for maize and sorghum growers since fall armyworm was found in Australia in 2020, as the pest persists post-flowering.

  • High mouse activity reported in several regions vigilance advised
    Pests, 24 Apr 2024
    High mouse activity reported in several regions vigilance advised

    The Grains Research & Development Corporation (GRDC) and CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, are urging growers and advisers to be vigilant due to reports of moderate to high mouse activity in several regions across Australia.Although mouse numbers are generally low in most areas, the areas with moderate to high mouse activity include parts of the north Adelaide Plains, Victorian Mallee and Wimmera, pockets of Queensland's Darling Downs, and the Central Eastern Wheatbelt of Western Australia.CSIRO mouse researcher Steve Henry said now is the time for growers and advisers to actively monitor mouse activity.

  • Managing canola pests using beneficial insects, spiders and mites
    Pests, 27 Mar 2024
    Managing canola pests using beneficial insects, spiders and mites

    The Grains Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) is spearheading two innovative research projects, led by CSIRO and Cesar Australia, with a combined investment exceeding $12 million to enhance pest management in canola through the utilization of beneficial insects. These projects aim to mitigate the annual losses estimated at $54 million from invertebrate pests in canola by fostering a deeper understanding of the role of beneficials such as ladybeetles, lacewings, spiders, and parasitic wasps. With canola being vulnerable to a wide array of invertebrate pests, the initiative underscores the importance of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that prioritize cultural practices and biological control while minimizing chemical interventions. The primary project, Canola Allies, led by CSIRO along with NSW DPI, SARDI, DPIRD, and Murdoch University, focuses on leveraging beneficial insects to suppress pest populations and curb the frequency of pest outbreaks. This five-year, $9.7 million investment aims to address the challenges of market access, chemical regulation, and the escalating risk of insecticide resistance, ultimately contributing to more sustainable and productive canola farming practices across Australia.

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