Insect pests of oilseed rape

Abstract

This review traces the development and research on oilseed rape pests during 1970-90, concentrating on insect pests of the growing crop in the UK. Actual losses due to insect pests are considered to be about 4% (œ10 million/year). The main pests in the UK are Psylliodes chrysocephala, Meligethes spp., Ceutorhynchus assimilis and Dasineura brassicae, with Brevicoryne brassicae, C. picitarsis and C. quadridens [C. pallidactylus] being minor pests. Aphid vectors of plant viruses (notably beet western yellows [beet western yellow luteovirus]) are also considered. Significant changes in the status of oilseed rape as a crop are outlined and the effects of these on insect pests are discussed. Changes and developments in pesticide usage are described, the decline of persistent materials and the introduction of synthetic pyrethroids being of particular significance. The development of strategies for the control of insect pests is discussed, with reference to the establishment of treatment thresholds. Topics covered in a review of applied research include studies of pest behaviour, biology, distribution and damage. The development of novel methods of pest control, including the potential role of semiochemicals and biological control agents is also described. A brief review of pollination studies is included, with an emphasis on the behaviour of bees and their importance as pollinators.