Nimble Nematodes: USDA researchers are testing different biocontrols for control of peach pests

摘要

PEACHES are a significant part of the South's fresh produce industry. But since several insect pests pose serious threats to southern peach orchards, growers must often resort to chemical controls to protect their fruit. At the USD A-Agricultural Research Service (ARS) Southeastern Fruit and Tree Nut Research Laboratory in Byron, GA, entomologists David Shapiro-Han and Ted Cottrell are seeking environmentally friendly alternatives. In cooperation with Russ Mizell at the University of Florida and DanHorton at the University of Georgia, the ARS researchers are evaluating two tiny, soil-dwelling nematodes as possible biological controls.