Organic management of Mexican bean beetle (Epilachna varivestis Mulsant) in snap bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

Abstract

Organic Management of Mexican Bean Beetle (Epilachna varivestis Mulsant) Infestations in Snap Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) Crops Tiffany L. Fess Various methods have been suggested to control or deter MBB from attacking bean crops, however conclusive data detailing the effectiveness of control methods and their effects on green bean yield are limited. Two separate experiments were performed to compare MBB management practices in snap bean crops and determine snap bean varieties with natural tolerance to MBB infestations. P. foveolatus in snap bean crops significantly(P<0.05) reduced the larval and adult MBB populations, while increasing the bean yield in optimal growing conditions. The use of row cover and staggering of planting date proved to be unsuccessful (P>0.05) increasing bean yield, however MBB larval, pupal, and adult populations were found to be different (P<0.05) when growing conditions wee optimal. When MBB populations were above the economic threshold (1-1.5 MBB larvae per plant) in the test, tolerance to MBB infestation was not observed (P>0.05) in any of the varieties studied. iii Acknowledgments I thank all the people at West Virginia University and the surrounding community who helped me to complete my study and achieve my Master's degree in Horticulture. First, I would like to thank Dr. Sven Verlinden for believing in my abilities and allowing me a chance to advance academically along with providing great advice and guidance. To Dr. James Kotcon for helping me solve in-field dilemmas, providing me with research space, and rescuing me from dehydration. To Dr. Linda Butler for her wisdom and knowledge in entomology. To Dr. Baker for admitting me into the program, providing me with an opportunity to develop scientifically and academically. To Dr. George Seidel for helping with my statistical calculations and analyses. I would also like to thank Jim & Sue Myers and Don & Susan Sauter (Flying Ewe Farm) for allowing me space to conduct my research in their personal gardens. Lastly, I would like to thank Tom Dorsey from the NJDA Philip Alampi Beneficial Insectary, for supplying the P. foveolatus for my research, and to interested community members. Funding provided by USDA CSREES and WVA under the Hatch project WVA 004477.

Examining Host Selection by Mexican Bean Beetle (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) Using Mark-Release-Recapture

“…Epilachna varivestis can be effectively controlled with synthetic insecticides such as pyrethroids and neonicotinoids (Shamiyeh and Mullins 1987, Nault and Speese 2001, Patton et al 2003, Nottingham and Kuhar 2017). Augmentative release of the parasitoid, Pediobius foveolatus (Crawford) (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), has also shown success in reducing E. varivestis pest densities (Fess 2008, Nottingham et al 2016). However, pest control tactics (especially selective methods) are more likely to succeed if implemented in addition to a prophylactic, cultural strategies (Gray et al 2009).…”