Date of Award

8-2012

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Legacy Department

Entomology

Committee Chair/Advisor

Greene, Jeremy K

Committee Member

Mitchell , Paula

Committee Member

Mueller , John D

Committee Member

Reay-Jones , Francis

Abstract

Thrips and nematodes can be serious early-season pests of cotton grown on the highly variable soil types common in the southeastern United States. I examined the effects of precision-applied aldicarb (Temik¨ 15G) and seed treatments (Aeris¨ and Avicta Complete Pak¨) on population dynamics of thrips and nematodes in management zones defined by soil texture as measured by soil electrical conductivity (EC). Research plots were established in cotton fields with variable soil types at the Clemson University Edisto Research and Education Center near Blackville, SC, during May of 2010 and 2011. Research plots were arranged in a three-way factorial design, with management zone (low EC, medium EC, or high EC), at-plant seed treatment (Aeris, Avicta Complete Pak, or none), and aldicarb rate (0, 0.51, or 0.86 kg/ha of active ingredient) as factors. Soil texture was significantly correlated with soil EC, indicating that using zone definition by soil EC provided distinct areas for applying differential control tactics for thrips and nematodes. Population densities of thrips (2010) and nematodes (2010 and 2011) were highest in the coarsest soils (low EC zones). Seed treatments were not as effective in controlling and suppressing thrips and nematodes as aldicarb. The addition of aldicarb to seed treatments increased the efficacy of these products. Although aldicarb under the trade name Temik 15G is no longer available for use in US agricultural fields, results from this study may serve as a model for future formulations of aldicarb that may become available.

Included in

Entomology Commons

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