SBIR-STTR Award

The goal of this proposal is to develop host-plant attractants that Potato Psyllid (PP) utilize to find and colonize host plants. PP exhibits a marked preference for potato volatiles and trough feeding process changes composition of the volatile blend. Semiochemicals (host-plant volatiles) are commonly used to manipulate insect behaviors in IPM programs such as monitoring insect pest populations for timing of insecticide applications and control strategies such as attract-and-kill (Killing Stations). This research will be focused on the formulation of several previously tested plant volatiles that attract both sexes of PP. In preliminary tests in 2013 no-mess Yellow Sticky Traps (Alpha Scents) baited with kairomone-based lures attracted two times more insects than unbaited traps. The specific deliverables of this project include a potent long-range chemical attractant and an accurate and efficient trapping device for PP. We will use field behavioral assays to identify the best blends and release rates of plant volatiles. Reliable detection of psyllid presence prior to population outbreaks will allow for better timing of pesticide applications and may decrease unnecessary prophylactic treatments. We will also develop an effective Killing Station system that could supplement or reduce the need for multiple seasonal sprays of broadcast insecticides for PP. The input of broad-spectrum insecticides for pest management in potato and tomato fields has increased dramatically since the discovery of Zebra Chips - a disease that poses a serious biotic threat to these crops. Identification and improvement of plant-attractants and development of effective monitoring and attract- & kill devices for PP should improve management while concurrently reducing the need for broad-spectrum pesticide sprays.