Pests and their enemies in spring oilseed rape in Europe and challenges to integrated pest management

Abstract

Although oilseed rape cultivation in Europe is dominated by winter oilseed rape there are areas where spring oilseed rape is cultivated and interest in the crop is growing. Spring rape has a somewhat different set of insect pests. In addition, where spring rape and winter rape are cultivated in the same area, some pest problems may be exacerbated. A particular problem in spring rape cultivation is the establishment of the crop. Flea beetles of the genus Phyllotreta are a serious problem and generally have been controlled by seed treatments. The flea beetles are attacked by several enemies including parasitoids, nematodes and protozoa. Generalist predators such as carabids and spiders may play a role as predators, but there is presently little knowledge concerning this possible mortality factor. Agricultural practices such as seed bed preparation and seeding rates may also be important for controlling this pest. Certain pests such as the cabbage aphid, the pod midge and the pollen beetle may be affected by the close proximity of spring and winter oilseed rape. Phenologies of these pests and their enemies are examined in relation to spring rape cultivation. The implications for integrated pest management are discussed. © 2010 Springer Science+Business Media B.V.