Overview
Topic status: In progress
Overview
The diamondback moth (DBM), Plutella xylostella is one of the world's most significant insect pests, causing widespread damage to brassica crops worldwide. Growers use high levels of chemical insecticides, and the pest has evolved high levels of insecticide resistance. As part of a new QUT project to develop microbial controls for DBM, we will be evaluating artificial diets for mass rearing of the insect in the laboratory and commercial rearing facilities.
Research activities
The research activities include:
- field collection of larvae, preparation of artificial diets and assays to compare insect survival on diet or cabbage leaf
- possible opportunities to work with a commercial biopesticide manufacturer in Queensland.
Expected outcomes
The expected outcomes are laboratory colonies established and data gathered on performance of artificial diets for mass rearing of DBM.
Duration of project
6 weeks (approx.); November - December 2011
- Study level
- Vacation research experience scholarship
- Supervisors
- QUT
- Organisational unit
Science and Engineering Faculty
- Research area
- Contact
- Please contact supervisor for enquiries.
Associate Professor Caroline Hauxwell
