Science Edition 2023—Parasitoid wasp T. perfectus demonstrated high levels of parasitism of cabbage seedpod weevil in Ontario and Quebec with minimum spill over into non-cultivated habitats. The insect did not appear to pose a major risk in the Prairies, suggesting it could work as a biological control option in Western Canada. “Feasibility of using Trichomalus perfectus for...

Science Edition 2023—Keeping non-crop beneficial insect reservoirs – such as grass margins, treed areas, wetlands, and shelterbelts – near fields can help canola producers contribute to sustainability objectives while having a minimal (and possibly positive) impact on profitability and productivity. “Surveillance Networks for Beneficial Insects II: quantifying the canola yield effect of wetlands, shelterbelts and other insect...

Science Edition 2022—This is one of the first studies to characterize effector proteins with key roles in clubroot infection and disease progression. Results provide a valuable resource for the identification of new clubroot resistance genes. “Genome wide functional analysis of Plasmodiophora brassicae effectors and the management of clubroot disease” Peta Bonham-Smith, University of Saskatchewan SaskCanola, Saskatchewan’s Agriculture...

Science Edition 2022—Yield reductions at current nominal thresholds of one to two DBM larvae per plant in canola may not be significant. Therefore, the nominal thresholds for DBM in canola may need to be increased to a slightly higher number of larvae per plant. Dynamic action thresholds incorporate the effect of natural enemies on pest control. “Identification...

Science Edition 2022—Pollen beetles were susceptible to three of four insecticides tested. Yield reduction was detected at seven to nine beetles per plant, but not at four beetles per 10 sweeps. Pollen beetles were not detected in the Prairies and no native parasitoids were found attacking pollen beetle larvae in Atlantic Canada. “Generate knowledge and control strategies...