Using yellow rocket as a trap crop for diamondback moth (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae)

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Entomology
• Integrated Pest Management
• Plant Science

Background:

• The diamondback moth (Plutella xylostella) is a significant pest of cruciferous crops, including cabbage (Brassica oleracea).
• Effective pest management strategies are crucial for sustainable agriculture and crop yield protection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate yellow rocket (Barbarea vulgaris) as a trap crop for managing diamondback moth infestations in cabbage.
• To determine the optimal density of yellow rocket for maximizing its efficacy as a trap crop.

Main Methods:

• Field experiments were conducted in 2003 and 2004 comparing cabbage monocultures with intercropped cabbage and yellow rocket.
• Screenhouse experiments assessed Plutella xylostella oviposition on cabbage in varying percentages of yellow rocket.
• Pest population densities and adult dispersal were monitored using larvae counts, sticky traps, and sweep nets.

Main Results:

• Cabbage plots with yellow rocket showed significantly lower numbers of Plutella xylostella larvae compared to monoculture plots.
• Oviposition of diamondback moth on cabbage decreased as the proportion of yellow rocket increased, with diminishing returns beyond 20% trap crop.
• Yellow rocket reduced within-field dispersal of adult diamondback moths and promoted their aggregation around trap crop plants.

Conclusions:

• Yellow rocket serves as an effective trap crop for reducing diamondback moth infestations in cabbage.
• Integrating yellow rocket into cabbage cultivation presents a viable strategy for sustainable pest management in crucifers.
• Further research can optimize trap cropping systems for enhanced pest control and crop protection.