USDA has researched SBRM biocontrol agents for a number of years. The work was originally spearheaded by USDA ARS, Fargo ND. A number of microorganisms and entomopathogenic nematodes were evaluated, but without any salient success. Research has more recently shifted to the Northern Plains Ag Research Lab, Sidney MT, in cooperation with USDA Fargo and NDSU, and plant pathologists at Montana State University. Biological management of the insect pests needs to be considered within a larger context—biobased management of the pests and pathogens—with recognition that a biological may not, by itself, be able to entirely supplant pesticide use. But, integrated with other IPM tools, biological agents could find a place in reducing overall chemical use.
Current research focuses on integration of a Metarhizium anisopliae with a series of Bacillus spp. to manage the plant pathogens, with resistant hybrids, with induced systemic resistance, with population modeling and forecasting, and with cultural practices. The principle behind using entomopathogenic fungi for SBRM, and wireworms, is to create an “infectious minefield” of spores surrounding the developing plant, in the top 2-3 cm of soil. Neonate larvae will contact spores as they move through the soil, become infected, and die before they can inflict economic damage on taproots. The minefield can be created by applying fungal spores either on granules at planting, or as a liquid spray applied in a band over the row, at the time of adult fly emergence and oviposition. Status of current research will be reviewed. There is hope!
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