Occurrence of cereal leaf beetle in relation to wheat tiller density

Sampling studies conducted in wheat, Triticum aestivum L., in South Carolina showed that densities of the cereal leaf beetle (CLB), Oulema melanopus (L.), per unit area were spatially associated with spike counts on at least one sampling date, generally corresponding to peak densities of each life stage. A planting rate study in North Carolina showed that more eggs were laid per tiller in thin wheat stands, yet more eggs were laid per unit area in thick wheat stands. These studies provide insight into the importance of wheat stand as a potential major factor influencing the spatial distribution of CLB. Determining when and where CLB accumulate in wheat fields in the southeastern United States can provide useful information that could lead to improved sampling plans and more efficient use of insecticides. These data may also be used for modeling purposes to predict when and where this pest might occur.