ARS | Publication request: Response of Hessian Fly to a Potential New Fumigant for Exported Hay

Submitted to: Entomology Society of America Pacific Branch Meeting
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: February 22, 2010
Publication Date: April 11, 2010
Citation: Yokoyama, V.Y., Cambron, S.E., Muhareb, J. 2010. Response of Hessian Fly to a Potential New Fumigant for Exported Hay. Entomology Society of America Pacific Branch Meeting, April 11-14, 2010, Boise, Idaho. p. 49.

Technical Abstract: Hessian fly, Mayetiola destructor (Say), puparia were reared on wheat seedlings at the USDA, ARS, West Lafayette and shipped to the USDA, ARS in Parlier to develop new quarantine treatments to control the potential pest in hay exported from the western states to Pacific Rim countries. A mixture of 2% phosphine (PH3) and carbon dioxide gas was tested on puparia in basic dose-response tests. Doses were 500, 750, and 1,000 ppm for 2, 3, and 4 d exposures at 5, 10, 15, and 20°C. Survival was determined by emergence of adults from exposed puparia after greater than or equal to 60 d. A low number of survivors occurred for all dosages and durations tested at 5, 10, and 15°C, except for 1000 ppm for 4 d at 15°C. No survivors have been detected to date (=49 d) for all dosages and durations tested at 20°C. Application of phosphine in gas cylinders versus the currently used aluminum phosphide in tablets will allow rapid liberation of the toxicant shortening the fumigation period. A shorter fumigation schedule will reduce handling costs by enabling freight containers of treated hay to be expeditiously transported to ports for ocean freight to overseas markets.