Diamond back moth: Messages from a land down under

摘要

Research on diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella ( L.) now has an extensive history and has produced a wealth of scientific literature on the biology and management of this major pest. The transition of research focus from basic biology through reports of insecticide resistance to integrated pest management programs and development of tools for genetic investigations can be tracked over 20 years in the proceedings of the international workshops on the management of diamondback moth and other crucifer pests. Progress towards understanding the agroecology of P. xylostella (the interaction of the pest and its natural enemies with the natural and crop production landscapes) has been made, with gains in many areas such as movement, insect-plant interactions, biological control and others. The role of simulation modelling in further understanding the exploitation of resources by P. xylostella and other Brassica insect pests will gain in importance as the need to understand the implications of climate change becomes a reality. The challenge of ensuring the true integration of tactics deployed for pest management still exists as development of resistance to new insecticides re-emphasizes the vulnerability of single tactic strategies. There also remains adesperate need to help smallholders in tropical and sub-tropical areas to produce Brassica crops free from pest damage and from insecticide residues by providing a knowledge base and tools for integrated crop management— much is already known but needs to be made accessible to the farmers of the world.