We use cookies on our website. Some are necessary for the operation of the website. You can also allow cookies for statistical purposes. You can adjust the data protection settings or agree to all cookies directly.
Data Protection Declaration
Imprint
Elaboration of a report concerning the infestation situation and control of the European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilialis) and the Western corn rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera) in Europe and particularly in Germany
Project
Project code: JKI-SF-08-1179
Contract period: 01.12.2013
- 31.05.2014
Purpose of research: Inventory & Assessment
A project funded by the German Federal Agency for Nature Conservation, which is used as an advisory and decision-making basis for the planned use of stacked events in areas with insecticide use in maize. These data collections about the current attack situation and the control by insecticides in Germany and Europe, the European corn borer (Ostrinia nubulialis) and the Western corn rootworm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera) are compiled and the results presented by implementing GIS. Moreover an extensive literature review is created and interviews with experts concerning the development of the pests spread, control thresholds and recommendations on the adequacy of different maize varieties is made. The occurrence and infestation level of European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis) and Western corn root worm (Diabrotica virgifera virgifera) as well as their control were analyzed in collaboration with experts of plant protection services of German states in the years 2009 to 2013.
Because a systematic monitoring on European corn borer does not exist, the infestation level either assessed or estimated was documented using five infestation intensity groups (0: no occurrence, X: low infestation - 50% infested steams).
The European corn borer has been slowly spread towards North West and occurs in two-thirds of all counties till now. The share of strong infested counties varied from year to year and did not show any increase. The area of chemical and biological control was estimated at slightly more than 40,000ha (2% of maize growing area) and 27,000ha, respectively, in 2013. The collected data do not show a significant increase of control need.
The occurrence of Western corn root worm borer was well documented up to 2013 because of its quarantine status (pheromone trappings). The pest slowly spreads towards North. The Western corn root worm borer was determined in 34 counties (7% of all counties) by 2013. While chemical control measures were performed on 2,432ha in the year 2009, two years after the first record of pest in Germany, the insecticide use reduced to 192ha und even only 9ha in the years 2012 and 2013, respectively. In practice, the cultural control by crop rotation is favorite and recommended by advisory services.
The experts of German states assume a further spread of both maize pests, but not an adequate increasing control need. A national adapted monitoring system would be helpful to recognize possible changes of their pest status.
Section overview
Subjects
- Crop Production
- Crop Protection
