Abstract

ANSA, A. et al. Evaluating some systemic insecticides on two important pests of the genus Eucalyptus. Quebracho (Santiago del Estero) [online]. 2020, vol.28, n.1, pp.43-53.  Epub Apr 01, 2020. ISSN 0328-0543.

The bronze bug, Thaumastocoris peregrinus, and the gall wasp, Leptocybe invasa, are two important Eucalyptus pests in Argentina. The objective of this work was to evaluate some systemic insecticides on these pests, on young eucalypt plants. The tests were performed using Eucalyptus camaldulensis individuals. The plants were watered with the insecticides by spoil drench. The effect of commercial formulations that include acetamiprid, thiamethoxam, imidacloprid and acephate was evaluated on the survival of T. peregrinus up to 72 days after being applied. Acetamiprid and thiamethoxam were also evaluated on their ability to prevent the development of L. invasa galls. The highest mortality levels of T. peregrinus and the maximum residuality were observed in the plants treated with imidacloprid and thiamethoxam, and it were significantly higher than the control treatment until 51 days after application. None of the products prevented L. invasa infestation; however, the monthly applications of acetamiprid reached an infestation level significantly lower than the control after three applications. These results provide a possible management strategy for the control of T. peregrinus and suggest the need for new studies for the prevention of L. invasa infestation in young eucalyptus plants.

Keywords : Leptocybe invasa; Thaumastocoris peregrinus; chemical control; forest health.