Beneficial organisms as bioindicators for environmental sustainability in the grape industry in Australia

Abstract

Increased biodiversity is being promoted as an important aim for Australian agriculture, but the measurement of biodiversity is problematic and often not practical. An alternative involves the development of surrogate indicators for biodiversity on farms that have direct links to production. One group of organisms that may perform this function in vineyards is the beneficial invertebrates that have a direct impact on pest abundance. If we can identify the effects of common management practices on invertebrates that are important in the wine industry, we can identify target organisms whose presence suggests good and sustainable practice. Here we identify key invertebrates, both pests and natural enemies, in grape production, the effects of some management practices on these invertebrates, and suggest steps to develop these invertebrates into sustainability indicators for the viticulture industry.