Phylloxera mortality and temperature profiles in compost

Abstract

Temperature data were taken from top, mid and bottom sections of composting windrows to profile windrow temperatures and to assess phylloxera (Daktulosphaira vitifolii (Fitch) (Hemiptera:Phylloxeridae)) survival during turned windrow composting. Temperature profiles show that temperature in successive windrows can be affected by aspect, vary significantly from top to bottom and can be related to ambient temperature in the surface layer. Temperatures lethal to phylloxera (36-40°C) can be generated in much of the pile for suitably long periods. Variability and sub-lethal temperatures were evident in the bottom and outer surface areas and in pockets within the windrows. Any risk that phylloxera may survive in these areas would be negated by turning the windrow according to the Australian Standard for Composts, Mulches and Soil Conditioners (AS 4454).