Integrated systems for managing bemisia tabaci in protected and open field agriculture

Abstract

The combined efforts of disparate entities have produced notable advances in management of Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) over the decades. On the one hand, entomologists and academicians have focused on specific problems, approaches and solutions, and designed experiments with replicated treatments to provide statistically valid results that hold up to scientific scrutiny. On the other hand, growers must integrate information from all disciplines into a profitable cropping and marketing system in order to survive. The gap between these extremes is often filled by crop consultants or agrochemical sales representatives who may have limited interests, focus or experience. There is clearly a need for more and better information on how management practices can be integrated to provide the desired level of pest suppression while still maintaining a balanced and profitable cropping system. The key challenge to implementing new practices will be to sustain or improve current levels of productivity while minimizing impact on the environment and biodiversity. © Springer Science+Business Media B.V. 2010.