Population dynamics of main tobacco pests in the field and management suggestions

Abstract

The population dynamics of main tobacco pests were evaluated between 2010 and 2012 in China using systematic field monitoring and pheromone lures. Winged Myzus persicae peaked at 156 in late April/early May and gradually decreased, eventually disappearing by early June. Agrotis ipsilon, which peaked at 23 in 2011, was the main pest during the seedling stage, first appearing in late February/early March but rarely causing harm before mid-May. Overwintered Helicoverpa armigera first appeared at the end of March, peaked at 22 from late April to late June in 2011, and disappeared by July. Overwintered Helicoverpa assulta, which caused the most harm during the growing season, first appeared in mid/late April and peaked at 8 once or twice in 2011, before decreasing in mid-June. Overwintered Spodoptera litura adults first appeared in late April but disappeared by early June, only peaking once, at 128, but being more abundant than the other pests, except M. persicae in 2011. These results may be used to design monitoring and control programmes to effectively manage tobacco pests.