2020
Utilizing Nuclear Polyhedrosis Virus as a Novel Insecticide
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Contributor/Checkoff:
Louisiana Soybean and Grain Research and Promotion Board
Category:
Sustainable Production
Keywords:
Biotic stressCrop protectionField management Pest
Parent Project:
Utilizing Nuclear Polyhedrosis Virus as a Novel Insecticide
Lead Principal Investigator:
Sebe Brown, Louisiana State University AgCenter
Co-Principal Investigators:
Project Code:
Contributing Organization (Checkoff):
Louisiana Soybean and Grain Research and Promotion Board
$20,000
Institution Funded:
Louisiana State University AgCenter
$20,000
Brief Project Summary:

In Louisiana and other southern states, worms commonly cause economic damage to soybeans. Conventional insecticides typically control these pests for less than 14 days, and some infestations require multiple treatments to protect yield. This research is studying nuclear polyhedrosis virus, or NPV, as a novel control option. The project tracks the efficacy and spread of NPV in field-scale trials. It’s a virus-based biological insecticide. When ingested by the target species, they replicate within host cells. Small larvae typically die within four to six days of infection, eventually liquifying and releasing more virus into the environment.

Key Benefactors:
farmers, agronomists, Extension agents

Information And Results
Project Deliverables

Objective i: Insecticidal efficacy of CEW and SBL nuclear polyhedrosis virus (NPV) insecticides will be evaluated across different planting arrangements and cultural practices in soybeans and corn. Trials will be conducted on production fields across all soybean and corn growing regions of Louisiana under different planting arrangements, row spacings and seeding rates. A data collection protocol will be standardized across locations to facilitate analysis. Number of insects captured in sweep net and visual samplings will be recorded for each location. Length, speed of control and non-target impacts will be assessed at each location. Yield data will be collected where available.

Objective ii: Infection rate and spread of NPV virus after application will be evaluated. Applications of virus will be made in anticipation of differing precipitation events on differing planting arrangements. Trials will be conducted on production fields across Louisiana soybean and corn growing areas. Area of spread will be quantified at each location and weather conditions will be monitored accordingly. Yield data will be collected where available. This information will be disseminated to producers, consultants, and other individuals in the agricultural industry.

Final Project Results

The United Soybean Research Retention policy will display final reports with the project once completed but working files will be purged after three years. And financial information after seven years. All pertinent information is in the final report or if you want more information, please contact the project lead at your state soybean organization or principal investigator listed on the project.