Blueberry, Insect Control, 1997

Abstract

Abstract Laboratory control tests were conducted using a Burkard computer controlled spray apparatus to apply the materials at 10 lb psi air pressure and an orifice setting of 6. Treatments were applied to blueberry foliage placed in filter-paper-lined, 10-cm-diam petri dishes. Insects were introduced immediately after spray application. For all applications, 0.2 ml were sprayed into each petri dish. Foliage was changed every 2-3 days. The number of insects per dish depended on pest species and developmental stage and ranged from 5-11. Replicates ranged from 3-8, and the frequency of sampling dishes for the assessment of mortality was 1-7 days (see tables). Insects were determined dead if they did not move upon being touched with a laboratory dissecting needle. Dead insects were held in separate petri dishes for up to 2 weeks in order to detect symptoms of mycosis or parasitism by parasitoids. Log (dose)-probit or dose-probit regressions were used to quantify the relationship between dose of control agent and mortality. The criteria used to select the date for the regression was evidence of significant mortality across the dosages with insignificant mortality of the control group.