Last updated 6/19/98 |
Table of Contents
Timothy J. Gibb and John T. Zenger
To determine the specific impact that ants have on Japanese beetle egg and larval populations.
In spite of the fact that lawns, parks, athletic fields, golf courses and other turfgrass areas are designed for very close human interaction, chemical pesticides are still relied on, almost entirely, to control turfgrass pests. The value of biological controls in reducing pesticide exposure and environmental contamination is commonly cited, however, the impact of naturally occurring biological control agents in turfgrass systems is not well understood.
Intensive and extensive sampling of turfgrass sites using modified pitfall traps will be undertaken. Specific identification of naturally occurring ants will be made. In addition, plots measuring 10 ft. by 10 ft. will be evaluated as to the effect of ant predation on artificially placed white grub eggs.
Initial studies have indicated that ants, especially of the genus Solenopsis are responsible for significant pest predation. While relatively common throughout much of North America, prevalence of these ants in localized greographical areas has been found to be subject to cultural practices such as tillage, irrigation and pesticide applications. Our preliminary studies have indicated that Solonopsis frequently resides in turfgrass and that it may exert a significant amount of natural control on turfgrass arthropod pests, including the most destructive pest, the Japanese beetle (Popillia japonica). Results of these studies will help determine the ecological impact of Solenposis predation in the turfgrass ecosystem. Furthermore, a complete understanding of the distribution and the impact of this predator, together with its response to current pest control methods, must be gained in order to assess its fit in an integrated turfgrass pest management (I.P.M.) program.
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