Grant: Applied Research and Development Grants - Level 2

Biological control of aphids on British Columbia blueberries: Blueberry scorch virus (BlScV) is a seriouseconomic problem for blueberry production in British Columbia (BC). The virus causes blossom and leafblighting and substantial yield reductions. BlScV is distributed throughout all blueberry production areas ofBC. This disease is transmitted among blueberry plants by the blueberry aphid, Ericaphis fimbriata.Early-season aphid control via chemical insecticides is recommended to reduce the spread of the virus withinand between blueberry fields. This project investigates the potential for using biological control products tomanage blueberry aphid populations as an alternative to application of chemical insecticides. Specifically, wewill evaluate aphid control by two insect predators, Micromus variegatus, a brown lacewing, and Aphidoletesaphidimyza, a predatory midge. These insects are produced by BC biological control companies for sale togrowers and pest management consultants. Our research will help to develop new markets for the use of theseproducts. Our objective is to develop a sustainable, ecologically-based strategy for aphid control in BC'sblueberry industry. This work has the potential to reduce environmental impacts of pesticides and, in turn,improve the quality and safety of BC food products.