MSc: Temperal and spatial distribution of key pests and their natural enemies in organic strawberry

 

In the absence of effective control measures, the strawberry blossom weevil (Anthonomus rubi), the European tarnished plant bug (Lygus rugulipennis) and the raspberry beetle (Byturus tomentosus) cause large (10 - >80%) losses in yield and quality in organically grown strawberry (A. rubi and L. rugulipennis) and raspberry (A. rubi and B. tomentosus). In collaboration with partners in the EU, we are testing a new mass-trapping strategy for these pests in the period from 2012-14.

We wish to establish a better ecological fundament for successful trapping through a better understanding of the pests and their interaction with the crops and landscape. This will include large scale replicated field experiments to explore the density and deployment of traps to protect the two crops.

The MSc project focus would be on the seasonal distribution of field populations of one or more of the three pests: blossom weevil (Anthonomus rubi), European tarnished plant bug (Lygus rugulipennis) and the raspberry beetle (Byturus tomentosus). The study can include concurrent assessment of the contribution to mortality by natural enemies in the field. Field studies will be done in organic strawberry and raspberry fields and surrounding habitats. Laboratory experimental work will be placed with the zoology group of Department of Agriculture and Ecology.

MSc students with an interest and relevant background for studying the ecology and temporal and spatial dynamics of the pests in question are invited to contact us. Ideally a projects experimental part should be placed over spring and summer of 2012, 2013 or 2014. Students wishing to focus on overwintering biology could place experimental work from September-April.

In addition, we are looking for a student assistant for the project with relevant knowledge of one or more of the following: insect (and plant) ecology and taxonomy, biological control, GIS. Experimental work can start already in April. A drivers’ license is important to be able to visit experimental fields. 

 
Contact:

Lene Sigsgaard

KU-LIFE, Institut for Jordbrugsvidenskab og Økologi
Thorvaldsensvej 40
1871 Frederiksberg C

3533 2674 
les@life.ku.dk