Integrated pest and resistance management of Helicoverpa zea (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) with a Helicoverpa armigera nucleopolyhedrovirus

Abstract: Andermatt Biocontrol is developing strategies to use Helicovex® for the control of Helicoverpa zea, a key pest in sweet corn. Field trials are performed in the USA to compare Helicovex® in different doses, stand-alone and in combination with grower’s standard products. In the first trial Helicovex® showed significant better protection than the pyrethroid-based product which suggests the presence of pyrethroid-resistant larvae. Even though pest pressure was exceptionally high, Helicovex® could almost double the amount of undamaged ears. For resistance management, Helicovex® can also be applied in rotation with pyrethroids, indicated in the second trial. There is no significant difference between stand-alone pyrethroid and the rotation of the pyrethroid and Helicovex®. In a third trial a Bta-based product and Helicovex® were compared. Helicovex® had significantly more marketable ears (76.8%) than the Bta (50%). The findings underline that with prevalent resistances to pyrethroids and other insecticides, Helicovex® is an essential tool for resistance management in organic and IPM production systems and may be applied in rotation with grower standard insecticides.