A sequential binomial sampling plan for potato psyllid (Hemiptera: Triozidae) on bell pepper (Capsicum annum)

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Entomology
• Pest Management
• Crop Science

Background:

• Potato psyllids (Bactericera cockerelli) are significant pests of solanaceous crops, including bell peppers.
• While potato psyllids vector Candidatus Liberibacter psyllaurous, bell peppers do not show disease symptoms.
• Psyllid distribution varies by host plant and cultivar, necessitating crop-specific management strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the spatial distribution of potato psyllids in bell pepper plants.
• To develop and evaluate a statistically sound sampling plan for managing potato psyllids in bell peppers.

Main Methods:

• Field observations were conducted to determine the spatial distribution patterns of potato psyllids (eggs, nymphs, adults) on bell pepper plants.
• Nymph-based binomial sequential sampling plans were examined for their statistical acceptability and efficiency.
• The number of samples required for treatment decisions at different infestation levels was calculated.

Main Results:

• Potato psyllids were evenly distributed on leaf surfaces but concentrated in the upper two-thirds of pepper plants.
• Psyllids exhibited an aggregated spatial distribution within fields, without an edge effect typical of other crops.
• A sampling plan based on 41% plant infestation (approximately 5 nymphs per plant) was found to be statistically acceptable, requiring an average of 11 samples for treatment decisions.

Conclusions:

• A binomial sequential sampling plan provides a simple and effective tool for managing potato psyllids in bell pepper cultivation.
• This crop-specific plan is crucial for efficient and targeted pest control, improving upon generalist strategies.