A phenology-perceptive integrated biocontrol program for Large raspberry aphid (Amphorophora idaei) control: PHENCONTROL

Raspberry is a popular and high-value soft fruit in the UK. However, current production is hampered by aphid infestation, mainly attributed to the large raspberry aphid (_Amphorophora idaei_). Controlling this aphid was historically done by breeding aphid-resistant raspberry cultivars and spraying pesticides. However, these methods are no longer adequate for several reasons. First, aphid biotypes able to withstand genes bred into raspberry began to emerge. Additionally, breeding for aphids for resistance is no longer a priority due to fewer concerns about the viruses that aphids spread. Secondly, the withdrawal of approvals for pesticides has limited the options for control.

Control of aphids is now anchored on integrated pest management strategies that depend on the use of effective commercially produced biocontrol products such as parasitoids and generalist predators. However, research has not been done to align the effectiveness of different biocontrol components into a cohesive integrated biocontrol program to protect raspberry crops from aphids. Consequently, there are losses to production, wastage of unmarketable fruit and inefficient resource use in raspberry. Commercial losses of even 10% to this £147M/year industry would translate to over £14M losses, an unacceptably high sum given that the UK imports more than 69% of raspberries consumed locally.

This project will leverage the expertise of grower organisations, NIAB scientists and a leading biocontrol producer to develop and test an integrated biocontrol program for aphid control in raspberry. The overall aim is to incorporate different biocontrol components into a season-long program that is responsive to the seasonal changes in the plant and aphids. We will include additional monitoring to assess the natural enemies and pests which utilise the crop during the winter season. This expanded scope is valuable to raspberry growers in the UK for aphid management and aligns with current thinking on maintaining " a standing army" of natural enemies of aphid in raspberry plantations. Additionally, the research consortium will conduct a cost-benefit analysis to ensure that adequate control maintains the market competitiveness of locally produced raspberries. Furthermore, this research will provide valuable information and data for future research to create biocontrol programs for other soft fruit in the UK.