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# The Beatsheet

Insect pest management for Australia's northern region

## Posts

- [Insecticide resistance to Group 28 and Group 6 insecticides detected in cluster caterpillar population in north Queensland soybeans (with implications for horticulture)](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/insecticide-resistance-to-group-28-and-group-6-insecticides-detected-in-cluster-caterpillar/) - Over the past few years we have received an increasing number of reports of cluster caterpillar (Spodoptera litura) populations causing significant damage in soybean, mungbean and peanut crops (see A Spodoptera season: Cluster caterpillar outbreak in summer pulses). In 2025, and again this summer, soybeans in the Burdekin have been heavily defoliated by cluster caterpillar.
- [Keep an eye out for turnip yellows virus (TuYV) in canola this season](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/keep-an-eye-out-for-turnip-yellows-virus-tuyv-in-canola-this-season/) - More growers are planting canola in southern Queensland this season, so it's important to be on the lookout for turnip yellows virus (TuYV) – one of the main viral threats to canola. What is TuYV and why does it matter? TuYV is a persistent virus that affects canola and other brassica crops. It is transmitted
- [Alfalfa mosaic and other viruses detected in Darling Downs chickpeas](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/alfalfa-mosaic-and-other-viruses-detected-in-darling-downs-chickpeas/) - A recent survey of chickpea fields across the Darling Downs, including areas around Dalby, Cecil Plains, and Chinchilla, has revealed the presence of several viruses affecting chickpea crops. Among the viruses detected were alfalfa mosaic virus (AMV), phasey bean mild yellows virus (PBMYV), turnip yellows virus (TuYV), and bean leaf roll virus (BLRV). Alfalfa mosaic
- [Barley virus G (BVG) found in barley crops across the Darling Downs](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/barley-virus-g-bvg-found-in-barley-crops-across-the-darling-downs/) - A recent survey of six fields across the Darling Downs and northern New South Wales has confirmed the presence of BVG (in all six fields), with varying levels of infection. The fields surveyed were spread across key cropping areas, including regions around Goondiwindi, Tara, and greater Dalby. This widespread detection highlights the need to remain
- [Locust outbreaks in outback Queensland](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/locust-outbreaks-in-outback-queensland/) - It’s been more than 2 decades since we’ve had a major locust plague in Queensland, but recent seasonal conditions have created an ideal environment. Outbreaks of migratory locusts are currently occurring across quite a few shires in Central Western regions and into Northern Queensland. See the online map (updated daily) of current sightings and estimated
- [Disease alert: fungal disease in chickpeas](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease-alert-fungal-disease-in-chickpeas/) - Chickpea growers need to stay vigilant for fungal diseases, especially as crop canopies close and wet weather and heavy dews occur. Recent reports from central Queensland have highlighted cases of white mould caused by Sclerotinia spp. Meanwhile, wet conditions in southern Queensland have led to instances of phytophthora root rot in susceptible paddocks. Across all
- [Higher than usual numbers of Helicoverpa punctigera moths this month](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/higher-than-usual-numbers-of-helicoverpa-punctigera-moths-this-month/) - Helicoverpa punctigera pheromone traps around the Maranoa, Western Downs and Central QLD regions are recording above average moth numbers. In particular, long-term sites at Roma and St George have both recorded well above their seven year average for this time of year. Continued migration of H. punctigera through spring is likely, if suitable weather systems occur,
- [Recent infestations in mungbean fly under the radar](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/recent-infestations-in-mungbean-fly-under-the-radar/) - As we approach the end of the mungbean season in southern Queensland, there have been several reports of pest fly infestations in mungbean crops, including bean fly (Ophiomyia phaseoli) attacking later stage crops, along with infestations of the relatively recent invader the American serpentine leaf miner (Liriomyza trifolii). Late bean fly infestations Late bean fly
- [Bean podborer outbreak in Central Queensland mungbeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/bean-podborer-outbreak-in-central-queensland-mungbeans/) - QDPI entomologists have received several recent reports of poor control after spraying bean podborer (Maruca vitrata) in Central Queensland mungbean crops. A major pest of mungbeans in tropical and subtropical production areas, bean podborer is typically more problematic in coastal cropping regions and can be more difficult to manage than co-occurring Helicoverpa sp. populations. Infestation
- [How to best manage powdery mildew in your mungbeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/how-to-best-manage-powdery-mildew-in-your-mungbeans/) - Powdery mildew is a fungal disease that is commonly seen each cropping season in most mungbean paddocks in Australia. In Queensland and northern New South Wales, disease outbreaks usually occur from early autumn in the summer planted crops, with epidemics typically developing as soon as temperatures drop. Initial symptoms are easy to recognise: small whitish,
- [Disease alert: bacterial diseases in mungbean](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease-alert-bacterial-diseases-in-mungbean/) - A wet spring has led to outbreaks of halo blight in several spring-planted mungbean crops throughout southern Queensland. Tan spot has also been detected in some crops. Avoid replanting seed from crops affected with halo blight and tan spot and minimise the spread of these diseases by restricting access and ensuring good farm hygiene. Avoid
- [Don’t fall for the wrong armyworm](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/dont-fall-for-the-wrong-armyworm/) - Native armyworm species are currently present in many young maize and sorghum crops across southern and central Queensland. Sometimes it is just the occasional larva, but in other situations native armyworms are at higher densities than fall armyworm (FAW). As far as we know, native armyworm are far less damaging to establishing crops than FAW
- [New virus confirmed in soybean in the Burdekin region](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/new-virus-confirmed-in-soybean-in-burdekin-region/) - Earlier this year, the Queensland Department of Primary industry (DPI) pathology team received samples of soybean with virus-like symptoms. Diseased plants displaying strong chlorotic mottle on leaves and leaf crinkling (see images below) were scattered through the crop. While the samples tested positive in a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for potyvirus, the actual species
- [Grain storage pre-harvest health check](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/grain-storage-pre-harvest-health-check/) - The biggest challenge when storing grain is dealing with insects (such as weevils) and prevention is ALWAYS better than cure. Controlling insects once they infest grain can only be done with fumigation or controlled atmosphere, both of which require gas-tight sealable storage. For storages that cannot be sealed, prevention is our only management option, short
- [Latest FAW research – what to consider when making management decisions](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/latest-faw-research-what-to-consider-when-making-management-decisions/) - With the detection of fall armyworm (FAW, Spodoptera frugiperda) throughout Queensland and now in major cropping regions in NSW, growers are wondering about the best management options for protecting their summer cereal crops. The latest research from NSW DPI provides information that can assist growers in deciding the most appropriate course of action for managing
- [Whitefly resistance monitoring in Cotton](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/whitefly-resistance-monitoring-in-cotton/) - Results for 2011-12 Monitoring for resistance in Silverleaf whitefly, collected in the 2011-12 cotton season, is now complete. Results show that resistance exists for Admiral® and bifenthrin (e.g. Talstar®) in horticulture but not in cotton while SLW remain susceptible to Pegasus® and Movento® In total 17 collections were made from Emerald, St George, Theodore, Moree
- [New insecticides for the control of silverleaf whitefly (SLW) in cotton, and considerations for resistance management](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/new-insecticides-for-the-control-of-silverleaf-whitefly-slw-in-cotton/) - Two new insecticides have recently been registered to control Bemisia tabaci B-biotype in cotton. Product Insecticide group Active ingredient Pest Exirel® anthranilic diamide (Group 28) cyantraniliprole SLW, Helicoverpa, cotton aphid (suppression only) Starkle® neonicotinoid (Group 4A) dinotefuran SLW & green mirid Exirel® was registered for cotton use in the 2013/14 season, and Starkle® has been
- [New strategy released to manage helicoverpa resistance](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/new-strategy-released-to-manage-helicoverpa-resistance/) - A new resistance management strategy (RMS) for Helicoverpa armigera has been released for the northern grain production region. It is anticipated that it will be adopted first in the current chickpea crop. H. armigera is a major pest of grain crops and presents a significant management challenge due to the current reliance on chemical control,
- [Helicoverpa insecticide resistance levels so far this summer](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/helicoverpa-insecticide-resistance-levels-so-far-this-summer/) - Each year NSW Department of Primary Industries conducts a Helicoverpa insecticide resistance surveillance program in the major summer cropping regions of NSW and QLD, focussed on detecting Helicoverpa resistance to the insecticides indoxacarb, emamectin benzoate and chlorantraniliprole. The program provides growers and advisors with an early warning system for potential resistance hot-spots in the northern
- [Keeping an eye on FAW resistance](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/keeping-an-eye-on-faw-resistance/) - Since 2022, an insecticide resistance surveillance program for fall armyworm (FAW) has been conducted annually by NSWDPIRD in collaboration with DAF entomologists. Resistance to older products, such as carbamates (Group 1A), organophosphates (Group 1B) and pyrethroids (Group 3A) has been confirmed in many FAW populations worldwide, and there are concerns that the increase in spraying
- [Movento® resistance in silverleaf whitefly](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/movento-resistance-in-silverleaf-whitefly/) - As part of the cotton industry’s proactive approach to managing resistance risks, there is an ongoing program of resistance surveillance in the major pest species. Resistance to spirotetramat (Movento®) was first detected in silverleaf whitefly (SLW) in the Burdekin region in 2016. From 2016–2024, 131 SLW populations have been collected and tested for resistance to
- [Moth trapping begins for 2024](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/moth-trapping-begins-for-2024/) - The Field Crops Entomology Team at the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries has recently established a new moth pheromone trapping network to inform the northern grains industry of the seasonal population patterns of key caterpillar pests. A collaborative network of more than 25 growers and agronomists are assisting the monitoring of pheromone traps in
- [Seeking out storage pests](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/seeking-out-storage-pests/) - Determining stored pest status in a silo full of grain can be a bit like finding the proverbial needle in a haystack, but a pilot study by the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries on two farms in Southern Queensland indicated that a combination of sampling methods may provide a more accurate picture of pest
- [Effective aeration cooling of stored grain](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/effective-aeration-cooling-of-stored-grain/) - Aeration cooling uses fans on grain storages to lower grain temperatures, which helps maintain grain quality and reduce storage pest problems. When cooling grain using aeration, the aim is to reduce and keep grain temperatures below the following seasonal targets: Winter crops (stored November-March): below 23°C Summer crops (stored April-September): below 15°C Most insect storage
- [Identifying insect pests in stored grain](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/identifying-insect-pests-in-stored-grain/) - Winter—time to visit your storages As temperatures drop and hopefully winter crop planting is completed, a little time invested around your storage facility will pay dividends. During our coldest months storage pests are not breeding rapidly and are less likely to fly. They are quietly sitting in grain residues in empty silos, or keeping warm
- [Soybean bruchid outbreaks in Queensland soybeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/soybean-bruchid-outbreaks-in-queensland-soybeans/) - Outbreaks of Bruchidius mackenziei (unofficially called the soybean bruchid) have been reported recently in soybean crops in the South Burnett and North Queensland. The bruchids were detected at harvest and postharvest, their timing matching previous reports of this pest from the Darling Downs and Burnett in 2009/10. Bruchidius mackenziei is a native bruchid that is
- [Spring moth activity and caterpillar pest risks](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/spring-moth-activity-and-caterpillar-risks/) - As winter cereals, canola and pulses flower and fill grain, and temperatures rise, the risk of infestation by caterpillar pests increases. Below is a quick refresher on the risk of infestation and crop loss by common caterpillar pests: helicoverpa, native armyworms and fall armyworm. Key points: There is increased risk of infestation by Helicoverpa armigera
- [Be on the lookout for disease this winter](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/be-on-the-lookout-for-disease-this-winter/) - Recent weather conditions have led to isolated outbreaks of two fungal diseases, fusarium crown rot and sclerotinia stem rot, in several grain crops across southern Queensland. Crown rot Crown rot, primarily caused by Fusarium pseudograminearum, has been detected in several barley crops across southern Queensland, but other winter cereal crops and regions are also at
- [Be alert: mice numbers may be increasing in a paddock near you](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/be-alert-mice-numbers-may-be-increasing-in-a-paddock-near-you/) - There have been reports of sporadic moderate to high mouse activity from several Australian grain growing regions, including southern Queensland, where 3 sites had high activity (with up to 800 burrows/ha at one site). See the April GRDC/CSIRO Mouse Update for more information. High mice numbers when winter crops are planted can result in significant
- [Fall armyworm infestations in forage oats: time to inspect the uninspected](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/fall-armyworm-infestations-in-forage-oats-time-to-inspect-the-uninspected/) - QDAF entomologists have recently inspected several infestations of fall armyworm (FAW) in forage oats on the Darling Downs. Oats are not a preferred host of FAW, but these infestations come at the end of the largest FAW season since the pest arrived in Australia. Oats are not usually inspected for pest insects, but agronomists are
- [Warm and wet conditions are ideal for diseases](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/warm-and-wet-conditions-are-ideal-for-diseases/) - Warm, wet conditions have led to isolated outbreaks of the fungal pathogen, Sclerotium rolfsii, in sorghum and grain legume crops across southern Queensland (although other regions are also at risk) and several disease outbreaks in mungbean crops growing throughout Queensland and northern New South Wales. Sclerotium rolfsii Sclerotium is a soilborne pathogen that can infect
- [A Spodoptera season: Cluster caterpillar outbreak in summer pulses](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/a-spodoptera-season-cluster-caterpillar-outbreak-in-summer-pulses/) - As growers and agronomists are doing battle with fall armyworm (FAW; Spodoptera frugiperda) in maize and sorghum, another species of Spodoptera, the cluster caterpillar (Spodoptera litura; Figure 1) is causing substantial defoliation in summer pulses. We have received reports across Queensland of damaging infestations of cluster caterpillars from soybeans, mungbeans, and peanuts. A cluster caterpillar
- [Fall armyworm infestations through January and February the most severe we’ve seen](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/fall-armyworm-infestations-through-january-and-february-the-most-severe-weve-seen/) - Maize and sorghum crops across Queensland are experiencing extreme fall armyworm (FAW) pressure. In Central Queensland in particular, sorghum planted in the typical planting window has been heavily impacted by the very high FAW pressure. Persistent, high-density infestations pose a risk to crops from emergence through to grain fill. In an unwelcome development not observed
- [Managing FAW in sorghum – is there a threshold yet?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/managing-faw-in-sorghum-is-there-a-threshold-yet/) - Late sorghum is susceptible to FAW damage, and potential yield loss, in the vegetative stage. This article discusses how the yield loss happens and how to determine if your crop is at risk. The information below was generated from both sorghum trials being undertaken at the Gatton research station funded by the Queensland Government and
- [Have your pulses been a little stinky recently?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/have-your-pulses-been-a-little-stinky-recently/) - High numbers of brown shield bugs (BSB, Dictyotus caenosus) have been reported in cotton fields from Hay through to Texas on the Queensland/New South Wales border. In pulse crops, these bugs (also referred to as 'stink' bugs) are part of the podsucking pest complex, and can cause both yield reductions and impacts to seed quality.
- [Disease alert: Mildews in the wind](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease-alert-mildews-in-the-wind/) - The DAF plant pathology team has recently identified powdery mildew and downy mildew from soybean crops growing in the Mackay region. Powdery mildew in soybean is caused by the fungus Erysiphe diffusa. This air-borne pathogen thrives in cool, humid weather. Infected plants develop symptoms initially on older leaves in the lower canopy. Whitish grey powdery
- [Managing the risk of tobacco streak virus in sunflowers is as easy as 1, 2, 3](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/managing-the-risk-of-tobacco-streak-virus-in-sunflowers-is-as-easy-as-1-2-3/) - The recent declaration of El Niño conditions for eastern Australia means an increased chance of below average rainfall. Historically, these conditions can lead to more severe outbreaks of tobacco streak virus. However, with forward planning and selection of suitable sunflower hybrids, the risk of economic impacts from TSV can be avoided. If sunflowers crops are
- [Russian wheat aphid returns to northern NSW](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/russian-wheat-aphid-returns-to-northern-nsw/) - Detections of Russian wheat aphid Diuraphis noxia (RWA) in New South Wales appeared later than usual this year. RWA was detected in Tambar Springs in northern New South Wales (NSW) in August 2023, followed by detections in the Liverpool Plains, Trangie and Moree Plains. More than 60 cereal and grass samples were collected in northern
- [New spray drift management tool permit includes Altacor in pulses](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/new-spray-drift-management-tool-permit-includes-altacor-in-pulses/) - A new APVMA permit (PER 93132) allows the use of a spray drift management tool (SDMT) to re-calculate buffer zones to suit your particular situation when applying some pesticides. The SDMT (available as a spreadsheet file) and other relevant documentation (including a video on how to use the calculator) and a copy of PER93132 can
- [Annual Helicoverpa resistance testing results for 2011-12](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/annual-helicoverpa-resistance-testing-results-for-2011-12/) - Implications for management in grains and pulses The insecticide resistance monitoring program for Helicoverpa aims to measure resistance frequencies of field populations collected from Central Queensland through to the Riverina area of NSW. Field collections of Helicoverpa eggs are reared in the laboratory and larvae are tested with doses of insecticide that are known to
- [Reports of Fusarium wilt in southern Queensland mungbeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/reports-of-fusarium-wilt-in-southern-queensland-mungbeans/) - There have been several reports of Fusarium wilt affecting mungbean paddocks throughout southern Queensland within the last couple of weeks. Monitor crops closely for disease symptoms, and contact our plant pathologist, Lisa Kelly at lisa.kelly@daf.qld.gov.au or 0477 747 040 for further information on disease diagnosis. Minimise the spread of the disease by avoiding movement through
- [Keep an eye out for mice](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/keep-an-eye-out-for-mice/) - There have been reports of mice activity in some crops around the Central Highlands, including grain sorghum, mungbean and cotton. Numbers of house mice (Mus domesticus) are generally low in cropping areas, but plagues can occur when conditions are favourable. Mouse populations have the potential to build rapidly and can do considerable damage in high
- [Disease alert: mungbean powdery mildew](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease-alert-mungbean-powdery-mildew/) - Powdery mildew has been detected in several mungbean crops growing in southern Queensland within the last couple of weeks. Powdery mildew in mungbean is caused by the fungal species, Podosphaera xanthii and Erysiphe vignae. Two fungicide options are currently under permit to manage the disease, including tebuconazole products (PER13979 - download the permit from the
- [Changes to the FAW permit for emamectin](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/changes-to-the-faw-permit-for-emamectin/) - If you are managing fall armyworm (FAW) in maize, you may have noticed that the permit for Affirm® (emamectin benzoate) (PER93226) had disappeared from the APVMA permits portal. PER93226 was temporarily suspended whilst clarification was sought around withholding period (WHP) and use patterns. While PER93226 is now back on the APVMA permits list, it is
- [Fall armyworm situation report for late spring](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/fall-armyworm-situation-report-for-late-spring/) - Fall armyworm (FAW) moth catches have increased significantly in some regions over the past few weeks (see trapping counts below). It is unclear whether this increase in trap catches is indicative of migration events (perhaps associated with the recent storm activity) or increasing night temperatures that allow for greater movement of moths that may have
- [Phytoplasma disease outbreak in NQ mungbeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/phytoplasma-disease-outbreak-in-nq-mungbeans/) - A severe outbreak of phytoplasma disease has been reported in mungbeans from the Burdekin region. Symptoms of little leaf, phyllody (greening of flower structures) and puffy pod became obvious in mid-late October and have now affected a high incidence of plants in a 25 ha planting. Puffy pod affected plants typically remain green for longer
- [Helicoverpa armigera outbreak in wheat and barley](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/helicoverpa-armigera-outbreak-in-wheat-and-barley/) - Many regions in Qld and northern NSW are still experiencing an outbreak of Helicoverpa armigera in wheat. Before the last significant outbreak occurred in 2016, it had been many years since anyone had seen such an event, and while there was a smaller outbreak in 2020, it was not on the scale or severity of
- [Winter cereal aphids – background to the potential impact of infestations](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/winter-cereal-aphids-–-background-to-the-potential-impact-of-infestations/) - The most critical issues we face in managing cereal aphids currently is the lack of local knowledge about the likely impact of infestations on yield and quality (the damage thresholds). (http://thebeatsheet-ipmnews.blogspot.com/2008/09/cereal-aphids-in-wheat-and-barley.html). In this article, I will not go over aphid basics i.e. identification and sampling. You can follow the links to previous articles to read
- [Keep an eye out for these diseases in cereal and pulse crops](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/keep-an-eye-out-for-these-diseases-in-cereal-and-pulse-crops/) - There have been several recent reports of fungal diseases in winter and spring crops in the northern grains region. Cereal rusts Rust has been detected in cereal crops growing in central and southern Queensland this winter/spring. Monitor crops closely, keeping an eye out for pustules on stems and leaves, and submit rust samples for pathotype
- [Can you help CSIRO learn more about Rutherglen bugs?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/can-you-help-csiro-learn-more-about-rutherglen-bugs/) - Grain growers and agronomists in northern New South Wales and southern Queensland have a unique opportunity to be involved in a Rutherglen bug (RGB) project to better inform RGB management strategies by either: reporting Rutherglen bug sightings online or signing up for a sampling kit to collect Rutherglen bugs for DNA analysis. A native migratory
- [Updated minor use permit for lucerne crown borer in soybeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/updated-minor-use-permit-for-lucerne-crown-borer-in-soybeans/) - Last week the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APMVA) updated minor use permit PER88226 for the in-furrow application of fipronil to manage lucerne crown borer (Zygrita diva, LCB) in soybeans at planting. Changes include: Extension of expiry date to 30 September 2025 Addition of a re-entry statement and S161 statement Adjustments to the protection
- [The fields are alive…with the sound of chewing](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/the-fields-are-alivewith-the-sound-of-chewing/) - Spring has sprung, and as is typical following a wetter winter, insects are abundant in crops. There are native armyworms in winter cereals from Central Queensland to northern NSW. Aphids are abundant in winter cereals, canola and faba beans. Key drivers of pest abundance in wetter seasons are the increased availability of plant hosts over
- [Faba bean aphid outbreak in northwest NSW](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/faba-bean-aphid-outbreak-in-northwest-nsw/) - History of FBA in Australia Faba bean aphid (FBA; Megoura crassicauda) originated from East Asia. First recorded in Australia in October 2016 in Sydney, FBA was confirmed in northwest NSW (Tamworth and Breeza) in September 2017. The aphid outbreak was controlled using Aphidex (500 g pirimicarb/kg). FBA was not observed again until 2020, where it
- [Phytoplasma puffy pod and TSV are still present in CQ mungbean](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/phytoplasma-puffy-pod-and-tsv-are-still-present-in-cq-mungbean/) - In Central Queensland, both phytoplasma and tobacco streak virus are still a common occurrence this year in mungbean crops. Phytoplasma Transmitted by leaf hoppers, the specialised bacteria of phytoplasma can cause severe disease and reduce yield and/ or affected pods in mungbean and other grain legumes like soybean, peanuts, pigeon pea and chickpea. Phytoplasma infection
- [Sorghum rust in the air](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/sorghum-rust-in-the-air/) - Disease surveys across northern New South Wales and southern Queensland have found that many sorghum crops have been impacted by rust. Sorghum rust is caused by the fungal pathogen, Puccinia purpurea, and is considered to be a relatively minor disease of sorghum in Australia. Symptoms Rust can infect sorghum crops at all stages of growth.
- [Disease alert: soybean downy mildew](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease-alert-soybean-downy-mildew/) - Disease surveys across southern Queensland have revealed a high incidence of Downy mildew in several soybean crops in April 2022. The downy mildew pathogen, Peronospora manshurica, infects crops during periods of rainy, humid weather. Though widespread, the disease is likely to have a minimal impact on yields. The pathogen can survive between soybean crops in infected seeds,
- [Mungbean disease alert](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/mungbean-disease-alert/) - After the wet weather in recent weeks there have been several reports of powdery mildew in mungbeans across Queensland and northern New South Wales, and Fusarium wilt has been found in several southern Queensland crops. Monitor crops closely for disease symptoms, and contact our plant pathologist, Lisa Kelly at lisa.kelly@daf.qld.gov.au or 0477 747 040 for
- [Soybean moth red alert](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/soybean-moth-red-alert/) - Soybean moths are on the move in the tropics with devastating populations reported in the Ingham region of NQ (see photo). Fuelling the outbreaks was a recent extreme heatwave event which saw temperatures ranging between 29-40 degrees Celsius for 12 straight days. While the heat may have made people lethargic, it greatly hastened the rate
- [Investigating unusual chlorosis in cotton](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/investigating-unusual-chlorosis-in-cotton/) - Leafhoppers (also known as jassids) rarely cause damage in cotton, so some unusual symptoms (leaf chlorosis that presented a little like cotton bunchy top disease) across several cotton fields in Queensland’s Burnett region last month that appeared to be associated with leafhoppers had both taxonomists and virologists searching for an explanation. Both the damage and
- [Root rot reported in Burnett peanuts](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/root-rot-reported-in-burnett-peanuts/) - Root rot reported in Burnett peanuts The DAF pathology team has recently received peanut samples with Neocosmospora root rot from crops growing in the Burnett region. Neocosmospora root rot is a sporadic but potentially severe disease caused by the fungus Neocosmospora vasinfecta var. africana. Outbreaks have occurred previously in the Burnett region in 2005, and
- [Ergot reported in southern Queensland sorghum crops](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/ergot-reported-in-southern-queensland-sorghum-crops/) - The DAF pathology team has recently received reports of ergot in sorghum panicles growing near Toowoomba in southern Queensland. Sorghum ergot is caused by the fungus Claviceps africana. The disease can result in poor seed set, lower grain quality, and can cause harvesting issues due to the sticky honeydew on sorghum panicles. Infected grain will
- [Bigger is not better when it comes to beat sheet sampling](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/bigger-is-not-better-when-it-comes-to-beat-sheet-sampling/) - How long should my beat sheet stick be? is a question that was asked at a recent Accredited Mungbean Agronomist Course. A common misconception is that a beat sheet stick should be as long as the beat sheet is wide. A standard beat sheet is usually at least 1.5 m across, but the stick should
- [Late bean fly damage reported in Burdekin black gram](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/late-bean-fly-damage-reported-in-burdekin-black-gram/) - Late damage has been reported recently in an Onyx-AU (PBR*) black gram crop in the Burdekin. The most obvious damage was dead leaves, but closer inspection found full sized larvae (3 mm) and pupae in the petioles of damaged leaves. The causal agent was common bean fly Ophiomyia phaseoli (Agromyzidae), but in this instance control
- [Is your mungbean seed free of halo blight?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/is-your-mungbean-seed-free-of-halo-blight/) - Halo blight, caused by a bacterial pathogen (Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. phaseolicola) is one of the major diseases of beans world-wide, particularly in temperate regions. In mungbean, symptoms on leaves start as small, water-soaked lesions that are surrounded by a yellow-green halo (Figs 1 and 2). Symptoms may be visible at the 1st or 2nd trifoliate
- [Larval infestations in peanuts: how to tell which caterpillar is which](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/larval-infestations-in-peanuts-how-to-tell-which-caterpillar-is-which/) - Since early 2020, growers and agronomists have been nervous about the prospect of fall armyworm (FAW; Spodoptera frugiperda) invading their crops. So far, the majority of significant and damaging FAW infestations have been recorded from sweet corn, maize, and sorghum crops, with some isolated outbreaks in horticultural crops such as ginger and capsicum. Occurrences in
- [Keep an eye out for faba bean aphid, particularly during spring](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/keep-an-eye-out-for-faba-bean-aphid-particularly-during-spring/) - After an initial report in Sydney, faba bean aphid (FBA - Megoura crassicauda) was confirmed in September 2017 in faba beans in Tamworth and Breeza. Very few commercial faba bean crops were sown during the drought in 2018 and 2019, however seasonal conditions then improved and FBA was found in July 2020 in faba bean
- [Fall armyworm tough it out during winter](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/fall-armyworm-tough-it-out-during-winter/) - It was expected that many southern Queensland regions would be too cold for fall armyworm (FAW) (Spodoptera frugiperda) to survive. However larval populations were found in the South Burnett and Lockyer Valleys, and small numbers of moths were also detected in pheromone traps on the Darling Downs this winter. Caterpillars and moths in the South
- [Keeping an eye out for diseases this winter](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/keeping-an-eye-out-for-diseases-this-winter/) - From this winter, the Beatsheet will start expanding to incorporate information on broadacre crop diseases (including alerts, identification and management). Recent alerts have been issued to watch for the diseases below: Ascochyta blight – reported in chickpeas in the eastern Downs Cereal rust – reported from southern Queensland and northern New South Wales. Bean yellow
- [Have you seen this mungbean disease recently?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/have-you-seen-this-mungbean-disease-recently/) - Several growers and agronomists across southern Queensland have reported extensive damage to their mungbean crops due to Fusarium wilt this season. Large areas of affected paddocks have plants that are wilted or dead, resulting in significant yield losses. The results of DAF annual disease surveys over the last five years have found that the disease
- [Detecting FAW in sorghum and corn](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/detecting-faw-in-sorghum-and-corn/) - Fall armyworm (FAW) are still active across the Northern Grains Region, but inland Central and Southern Queensland have not experienced continuous population build up in crops since the first immigration of moths in September–October. One of the major contributors to this continuing low pressure is probably the very high natural enemy (beneficial) impact on FAW.
- [Premature browning in soybeans—keep an eye out for webbers and miners](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/premature-browning-in-soybeans-keep-an-eye-out-for-webbers-and-miners/) - As we enter the business end of the season, we want our soybean crop’s leaves to be a healthy green, as the healthier the leaves, the more the pods fill and the higher the yield. In a drought year, dryland crops turn brown prematurely due to lack of water, but in wet years or in
- [Tobacco streak virus strikes again in mungbean crops in Central Queensland: how to avoid future risks](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tsv-strikes-again-in-mungbean-crops-in-cq-avoid-future-risks/) - Key points: There was a resurgence in tobacco streak virus (TSV) disease in mungbeans in early 2020 TSV is restricted to central QLD and closely related to the distribution of parthenium weed Growers are encouraged to avoid areas of dense parthenium to reduce risk In autumn of 2020, tobacco streak virus (TSV) was found to
- [Phytoplasma in mungbeans—Update: early March 2018](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/phytoplasma-in-mungbeans-update-early-march-2018/) - Phytoplama has been reported in second flower flushes in mungbeans, and also in harvested mungbean regrowth! So far the overall incidence of phytoplasma has been lower than this time last year, but growers and consultants are urged to keep monitoring their crops for the first symptoms of this disease, and to report any outbreaks. Many
- [Keep a lookout for phytoplasma in mungbeans and other summer legumes](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/keep-a-lookout-for-phytoplasma-in-mungbeans-and-other-summer-legumes/) - Last summer saw unprecedented levels of phytoplasma in summer pulses/legumes (including chickpeas, mungbeans and pigeon peas) in all cropping regions in eastern and northern Australia from the Ord Irrigation area (WA), Burdekin/Atherton Tablelands (NQ), to central NSW. The most likely insect vector is the brown leafhopper Orosius orientalis, which has been detected in recent (2017)
- [Phytoplasma resurfaces in the summer of 2016/17](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/phytoplasma-resurfaces-in-the-summer-of-201617/) - Phytoplasma (a specialised bacteria infecting plants) has been widely reported in spring-planted mungbeans from Central Queensland to North Western NSW (Moree and Narrabri) and all areas in between. Symptoms include masses of small deformed leaves, flowers and pods, plants remaining green at harvest, and possibly an increased incidence of puffy pod. While in previous recent
- [Serpentine leafminer – another exotic leaf-mining fly now in Australia](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/serpentine-leafminer-another-exotic-leaf-mining-fly-now-in-australia/) - Another exotic leaf-mining fly, the serpentine leafminer (SLM; Liriomyza huidobrensis), also known as pea leafminer or South American leafminer, has recently been found in commercial vegetable crops (celery and green beans) in the Fassifern Valley (90 km south-west of Brisbane). This follows its previous detection in western Sydney in early November. The national plant pest
- [On the lookout for swarms](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/on-the-lookout-for-swarms/) - Most people check the outlook for storms, but have you checked the outlook for swarms recently? After the widespread plague locust activity in southern Queensland and northern NSW in late spring to early summer in 2020, and given the recent rain in some districts, you might be interested to know what the outlook is for
- [Helicoverpa in wheat – does it warrant control?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/helicoverpa-in-wheat-does-it-warrant-control/) - Helicoverpa outbreaks in wheat are relatively rare events. The last big outbreak, in 2016, was the first significant event for several decades, so treating helicoverpa in wheat is not something that many agronomists are familiar with. However, 2020 looks to be a year when helicoverpa infestations in some crops may warrant control. Wet winters are
- [Termites in cereal crops—a rare occurrence—but it is 2020….](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/termites-in-cereal-crops-a-rare-occurrence-but-it-is-2020/) - Termites are common in undisturbed parts of the landscape, playing an important role in the ecosystem. It is unusual to find them in crops—but in 2020, there have been several reports of termites in winter cereals. The first reports were received during crop establishment, and more were received once the crops started to come out
- [Large flights of fall armyworm detected in the Mackay region](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/large-flights-of-fall-armyworm-detected-in-the-mackay-region/) - Fall armyworm (FAW, Spodoptera frugiperda) is an exotic pest that was first detected on the Australian mainland in February 2020. State and federal biosecurity organisations have determined it to be unfeasible to eradicate this pest and it is now classified as endemic. In response to this incursion, the Queensland Government has funded a network of
- [Flights of Helicoverpa armigera & H. punctigera detected throughout the Northern Grains Region in July and August](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/flights-of-helicoverpa-armigera-h-punctigera-detected-throughout-the-northern-grains-region-in-july-and-august/) - The annual Helicoverpa spp. pheromone trapping program for the Northern Grains Region commenced last month. During the first few weeks of trap catches, trap operators have detected flights of both H. punctigera and H. armigera in pheromone traps across the Northern Region. As we have seen in the last six years of our trapping program,
- [Faba bean aphid is back in our faba bean crops this winter](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/faba-bean-aphid-is-back-in-our-faba-bean-crops-this-winter/) - Faba bean aphid (FBA, Megoura crassicauda) was first noted in Australia on broad beans (Vicia faba L. cv. Coles Early Dwarf) in October 2016 in a Sydney suburb, (Hales et al., 2017). FBA was then recorded in September 2017 at two faba bean trial sites: NSW DPI Tamworth Agricultural Institute (TAI) and Liverpool Plains Field
- [Not all caterpillars in maize are fall armyworm](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/not-all-caterpillars-in-maize-are-fall-armyworm/) - Recent reports were received of decidedly non-armyworm looking caterpillars attacking corn cobs in a crop near Mundubbera. The larvae in question were pale with lines of large dark spots on their back, and looked very similar to a serious mungbean pest, beanpodborer (Maruca vitrata). However, the larvae in question were slightly larger (about 20 mm)
- [A new approach to silverleaf whitefly sampling](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/a-new-approach-to-silverleaf-whitefly-sampling/) - The first major outbreak of silverleaf whitefly (SLW) in Australia occurred in 2001-02 in central Queensland. Although it hasn’t occurred again in such biblical proportions, SLW has spread across Australia and is still a pest to watch in many cotton crops, as the honeydew it secretes contaminates the lint. The original SLW threshold matrix developed
- [Other summer pulse observations](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/other-summer-pulse-observations/) - As the summer cropping season winds down, there are some key observations in pulse crops made by leading consultants from New South Wales’s Northern Rivers and Queensland’s Hervey Bay regions that haven't been covered in recent Beatsheet articles. 1: Indoxacarb failures linked to poor coverage The high Helicoverpa pressure encountered this summer resulted in many
- [How soybeans are classified on spray labels](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/how-soybeans-are-classified-on-spray-labels/) - With a range of pest outbreaks recently (including fall armyworm), and the issuing of several new permits in Australia, there has been some confusion as to whether pulse crop references on spray labels and permits in Australia include soybeans. The good news is that the answer is yes it certainly does! Soybeans are listed by
- [Hungry little caterpillars clustering on Burdekin soybean pods](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/hungry-little-caterpillars-clustering-on-burdekin-soybean-pods/) - Update (20 April): There are reports that cluster caterpillars are also switching from leaf to pod feeding in maturing crops in the Mackay region, with a report of 5-10 larvae per square metre in many crops. Growers and consultants in all coastal regions are urged to check their crops for late season cluster caterpillars. Reports
- [Soybean stem fly outbreak in soybean crops](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/soybean-stem-fly-outbreak-in-soybean-crops/) - An estimated 4,000 ha of soybeans near Casino in Northern NSW have been affected to varying degrees by soybean stem fly (Melanagromyza sojae) , a pest rarely seen in damaging numbers in Australia. Damage in many Casino crops is confounded by the presence of charcoal rot, a disease which blocks the plant’s vascular (xylem and
- [Soybean stem fly on the move in soybeans in the Northern Rivers NSW](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/soybean-stem-fly-on-the-move-in-soybeans-in-the-northern-rivers-nsw/) - UPDATE: Crop progress report (March 2018) Recent photos of the crop where a stem fly infestation was reported in early February show signs of stem fly pupation, but no crop stress symptoms (i.e. no yellow and dying leaves), indicating that managing the outbreak when it was first detected would have been a waste of time
- [Aphids, virus and leaf feeding caterpillars in faba beans.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/aphids-virus-and-leaf-feeding-caterpillars-in-faba-beans/) - As the warm weather persists, insect activity is remaining high. DAFFQ Entomology has received numerous reports of aphids, and leaf-feeding caterpillars. The aphids have been identified as cowpea aphid and the caterpillars as one of the summer-active armyworm species, Spodoptera exigua (lesser armyworm). The concerns about these are for the potential for crop loss caused by
- [Faba beans and the growths on pods this season](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/faba-beans-and-the-growths-on-pods-this-season/) - In 2019, many of the faba bean crops have growths on pods. There has been much debate over the years about the cause/s of the lumps seen on the pods of faba beans; with some attributing it to thrips, or more recently to green mirid feeding. The growths are called oedema or intumescences, and are
- [Phytoplasma and virus problems in soybean and mungbean crops](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/phytoplasma-and-virus-problems-in-soybean-and-mungbean-crops/) - A devastating disease was observed in several paddocks of soybean crops in the Branchview area of the Darling Downs in late autumn 2016. Almost 100 percent of plants were affected in some paddocks. The affected plants produced no, or very few filled pods and instead had a proliferation of tiny immature pods as shown in Photos
- [Stem fly and disease outbreaks in Queensland soybeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/stem-fly-and-disease-outbreaks-in-queensland-soybeans/) - Since early March 2020, soybean growers in the Burdekin have seen significant damage to their crops. Close inspection of crops found many with soybean stem fly damage as well as leaf spots, and stem and pod lesions. Severely affected plants have suffered complete and rapid leaf defoliation. In many crops, plants did not collapse until
- [Are leafhoppers and seedling thrips a threat to summer mungbeans?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/are-leafhoppers-and-seedling-thrips-a-threat-to-summer-mungbeans/) - Leafhoppers (also known as jassids) and seedling thrips are extremely abundant in Central Queensland this summer. The vegetable leafhoppers (Austroascra viridigrisea) are very much an ‘in your eye’ pest, with swarms of the small (3mm) bright green critters flying up when disturbed in-crop. In contrast, the cotton seedling or cereal thrips (Thrips tabaci) are hiding
- [A tale of two moths and their larvae: beet webworm and bean podborer in CQ mungbeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/a-tale-of-two-moths-and-their-larvae-beet-webworm-and-bean-podborer-in-cq-mungbeans/) - Observations from recent Pulse Check field days in CQ Bean podborer (Maruca vitrata) and beet webworm (Spoladea recurvalis) are on the move in Central Queensland (CQ) mungbean crops. While both species may also be active in other mungbean regions, bean podborer is most likely to occur in coastal (e.g. the Burdekin) and subcoastal (Biloela, Kingaroy)
- [Beet webworm moths visit mungbean crops](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/beet-webworm-moths-visit-mungbean-crops/) - Beet webworm (Spoladea recurvalis) moths are being seen in huge numbers in mungbean crops at present. The moths are brown with white bands across the wings, and rest with their wings swept back. Those familiar with bean podborer (Maruca vitrata) will see the similarities between the two moths – both small brown moths that move
- [Leaf feeding beetle attacking millet](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/leaf-feeding-beetle-attacking-millet/) - Over the past week, the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) has received a number of enquiries about leaf damage in millet crops. The culprit is a native beetle (Oulema spp.), a member of the chrysomelid (leaf beetles) family. The larvae of the beetle are doing the leaf feeding. They are small, slimy-looking grubs
- [Moths ahoy at Kingaroy!](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/moths-ahoy-at-kingaroy/) - A plague of a native geometrid moths (Antictenia punctunculus - no common name) has visited southern Queensland, with huge numbers of moths reported. The species belongs to the twig looper family (Family Geometridae) and occurs in Queensland, New South Wales and the ACT. The moths have a 35-40 mm wingspan and distinctive colour pattern. The
- [Fall armyworm – should you be concerned?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/fall-armyworm-should-you-be-concerned/) - Fall armyworm (FAW, Spodoptera frugiperda) is an exotic pest that was detected in northern Queensland in a maize crop in February 2020. State and federal biosecurity organisations have determined it to be unfeasible to eradicate this pest and it is now classified as an endemic pest. Originating from tropical and sub-tropical areas of the Americas,
- [Keeping a close eye on diseases this season](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/keeping-a-close-eye-on-diseases-this-season/) - Recent rainfall has led to opportunistic late plantings in some areas. The current high relative humidity may also lead to an increased risk of disease in some crops. Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) plant pathologists are encouraging Northern Region grain growers to submit disease samples (particularly powdery mildew in mungbeans) for diagnosis as part
- [Natural enemies: meet the mealybug destroyer](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/natural-enemies-meet-the-mealybug-destroyer/) - Cryptolaemus montrouzieri is a ladybird beetle native to Australia that feeds predominately on mealybug and soft scale insects. Identified as an effective biological control agent, it has been exported to many other regions, and is reared commercially for control of a range of mealybug species, particularly in horticultural crops. In cotton crops where solenopsis mealybug
- [Ants on farm: friend or foe?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/ants-on-farm-friend-or-foe/) - While ants are most often thought of as a nuisance in kitchens or at picnics, they can also be present in a wide range of crops and other farm areas. Although ant nests are usually built in undisturbed locations (in field crops ants are most commonly found on field margins), in some soils they can
- [Merry Chrysalis](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/merry-chrysalis/) - The Beatsheet would like to wish all our readers and subscribers a very merry chrysalis for 2019! For those taking a break we hope you have a safe and happy holiday. The Beatsheet is brought to you with the support of DAF, GRDC and CRDC. If you have any comments or suggestions regarding this pest
- [Leaf beetles in Burdekin pulses](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/leaf-beetles-in-burdekin-pulses/) - Rhyparida sp. (swarming leaf beetles) have been reported in some Burdekin soybean crops. While the risk of outbreaks has declined as leaves dry off, growers and consultants are reminded to keep a lookout for this sporadic but sometimes very damaging pest. Monolepta sp. (redshouldered leaf beetles) have also been observed in some crops. What to
- [Locusts and grasshoppers active across western regions and central Queensland](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/locusts-and-grasshoppers-active-across-western-and-central-queensland/) - Locusts and grasshoppers are active across large areas of western Queensland and NSW and central Queensland. Reports of the Australian Plague Locust, Migratory Locusts, Yellow winged locust and spur-throated locust have been received from areas around St George to the Central Highlands during January and early February. It has been several years since we have seen
- [Summary of discussion on Russian wheat aphid with Dr Maarten van Helden (SARDI)](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/summary-of-discussion-on-russian-wheat-aphid-with-dr-maarten-van-helden-sardi/) - Notes from the meeting at DAF, Monday 21 January 2019 The South Australian Research Institute (SARDI) leads the major GRDC investment in Russian Wheat Aphid (RWA) research in southern Australia. Dr Maarten van Helden and Tom Heddle (SARDI) were in the northern grains region conducting a survey of RWA in the ‘green bridge’ (roadside grasses)
- [An opportunity to meet with SARDI (South Australia) entomologists and discuss the management of Russian wheat aphid](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/an-opportunity-to-meet-with-sardi-south-australia-entomologists-and-discuss-the-management-of-russian-wheat-aphid/) - Monday 21 January at 8 am Green Room, QDAF Conference Centre, 203 Tor St, Toowoomba. In October 2018, detections of Russian wheat aphid (RWA) were made in Cowra, Forbes, and Condobolin on the Liverpool Plains, and Coonabarabran. NSW DPI Biosecurity reported these detections (read the document here). The map below shows the location of RWA detections
- [2019 Helicoverpa spp. pheromone trapping in the Northern Grains region](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/2019-helicoverpa-spp-pheromone-trapping-in-the-northern-grains-region/) - Every year the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries runs a Helicoverpa spp. pheromone trapping program for the Northern Grains Region to detect flights of Helicoverpa armigera and Helicoverpa punctigera in important cropping areas. The trap network provides growers and agronomists with a warning system for potential egg-lay in susceptible crops. Although very few crops
- [Spies needed!](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/spies-needed/) - Are Russian wheat aphids (RWA) still moving north? No detections of RWA in crops have been received this year, and no detections from outside the already known distribution area. The most northerly detections to date (2018) were from Coonamble and Coonabarabran. We expect RWA to move further north every year and knowing where they are
- [Redbanded shield bug not so red up north](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/redbanded-shield-bug-not-so-red-up-north/) - One of the revelations for entomologists Hugh Brier and Trevor Volp during their recent trip to the Burdekin was that northern redbanded shield bugs (RBSB) (Piezodorus oceanicus) appear to be pale in comparison to their southern counterparts. In south east Queensland, females have a red (or pink) transverse band across their ‘shoulders’. In samples collected
- [Unnecessary spraying not good for your crop, your industry, or your bank balance](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/unnecessary-spraying-not-good-for-your-crop-your-industry-or-your-bank-balance/) - Recent reports have surfaced that best practice pest management guidelines are not always being followed in winter and spring-planted mungbean and soybean crops. There are reports of some crops in the Burdekin being sprayed unnecessarily for well-below threshold pest populations, and/or being sprayed with no regard for the GRDC’s widely publicised Insecticide Resistance Management Strategy
- [Soybean moth alert for Burdekin and Mackay soybeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/soybean-moth-alert-for-burdekin-and-mackay-soybeans/) - UPDATE (1 October 2019): High numbers of moths are still being reported in this region. Continue to check soybean crops for this pest. Reports have come in of major soybean moth activity in winter-planted soybeans in the Burdekin and Mackay regions. Some of the outbreaks caught all concerned by surprise, and one report came from
- [Soybean moth squadrons invade coastal Queensland](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/soybean-moth-squadrons-invade-coastal-queensland/) - Significant soybean moth flights have been observed recently in some coastal Burnett soybean crops. Little damage has been observed to date, but high numbers of adult moths are an early warning sign of potential severe defoliation. Soybean moth is usually a minor soybean pest but in spasmodic major outbreaks, larval populations can exceed 1,000 per
- [Large flights of <em>Helicoverpa armigera</em> & <em>Helicoverpa punctigera</em> detected throughout the Northern Grains Region](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/large-flights-of-helicoverpa-armigera-helicoverpa-punctigera-detected-throughout-the-northern-grains-region/) - The yearly Helicoverpa spp. pheromone trapping program for the Northern Grains Region, run by the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF), has recently commenced. During the first few weeks of trap catches, trap operators have detected flights of both H. punctigera and H. armigera in pheromone traps across the Northern Region (Table 1). Table
- [Pests of late winter / early spring](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/pests-of-late-winter-early-spring/) - While drought has dashed the planned rotations of many growers, there is still a risk of pest outbreaks at this time of year. Below are some of the most common to keep an eye out for. A note on withholding periods following insecticide use in crops that are diverted to stock If insecticide treatments have
- [Check withholding periods before using insecticides in crops that could end up being grazed or cut for hay](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/check-withholding-periods/) - With current rainfall so uncertain, there is the potential for crop failures this season. If these crops are cut for hay, or grazed, it is critical that the withholding period (WHP) of any insecticide treatments are considered. The WHP is the minimum period that needs to elapse between the last use of the product and
- [Armyworm outbreak](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/armyworm-outbreak/) - Armyworm infestations of barley crops, in particular, are being reported from southern NSW to the Darling Downs. Large numbers of moths are also being seen around lights at night. It is not unexpected that armyworm would be abundant this spring as some of their source areas (Channel Country, North Western Queensland) would have received significant
- [Taking a closer look at green lacewings](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/taking-a-closer-look-at-green-lacewings/) - Green lacewing larvae are generalist predators, and are important natural enemies of a range of pests including aphids, helicoverpa, whitefly and mealybugs. There are many species of green lacewings in Australia, including some that commonly occur in field crops. Readers are most likely to be familiar with Mallada signatus, which regularly features in ID guides,
- [Improved mirid spray thresholds for cotton](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/improved-mirid-spray-thresholds-for-cotton/) - After the introduction of Bt cotton in the 1990s, the focus of cotton pest management has shifted to sucking pests. Green and brown mirid (Creontiades spp.) damage can occur at any stage, from seedling to boll filling, although crops are usually attacked before peak flowering. Feeding damage (including terminal death, abscission of young squares and
- [Soybean aphids on the move in coastal soybeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/soybean-aphids-on-the-move-in-coastal-soybeans/) - Significant soybean aphid (Aphis glycines) populations have now been observed in many coastal soybean crops. Once the crop approaches late flowering, a spray decision must be made as later aphid infestations can severely delay harvest maturity. Careful monitoring is required to determine if populations are trending upwards to and beyond threshold levels, or if the
- [Peanut mites showing up in Burnett peanut crops](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/peanut-mites-showing-up-in-burnett-peanut-crops/) - Peanut mite (Paraplonobia sp.) outbreaks have been widely reported in Burnett peanut crops from Kingaroy to Coulston Lakes. This is not surprising as these mites are favoured by prolonged hot dry weather as has been experienced lately. The first sign that these mites are present are plants with pale leaves. On closer inspection, fine feeding
- [Major grass blue butterfly and soybean aphid outbreaks threaten coastal soybeans in SE Qld](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/major-grass-blue-butterfly-and-soybean-aphid-outbreaks-threaten-coastal-soybeans-in-se-qld/) - A major outbreak of grass blue butterfly (GBB) (Zizina labradus) in late vegetative and flowering soybeans has been reported in the Maryborough/Hervey Bay region. Some crops inspected had 10-12 GBB larvae per square metre with many plants denuded of buds and flowers. Other crops had less damage and fewer larvae (4-5 per square metre), but had
- [Early Season Helicoverpa issues and the use of NPV to control larvae](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/early-season-helicoverpa-issues-and-the-use-of-npv-to-control-larvae/) - Helicoverpa populations have started with a bang this season. One or more larvae per plant are common in pre-flowering sorghum, corn and cotton. However, early flowering sorghum crops are carrying up to 10 larvae per head. Corn and sorghum (monocot crops) host only Helicoverpa armigera, not H. punctigera - which has implications for control. Some
- [Helicoverpa activity and pheromone trap catches to 16 September 2016](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/helicoverpa-activity-and-pheromone-trap-catches/) - Helicoverpa punctigera numbers in pheromone traps look to be on the increase through September. The continued migration of H. punctigera through spring is likely, if suitable weather systems occur, and it is likely that all susceptible crops (chickpea, canola, faba beans, spring mungbeans, spring sunflowers) will experience helicoverpa pressure through October and November. Peter Gregg
- [Do I have a wireworm – true or false?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/do-i-have-a-wireworm-true-or-false/) - Wireworm adults and larvae are relatively common soil pests, attacking all field crops. Adults feed on germinating shoots, and larvae feed on germinating seed, seedling roots and shoots causing poor plant vigour or death. Wireworms are most common in zero till, areas with high stubble, or weedy fallows. These are habitats and food sources that
- [Slaters and other winter cereal establishment pests](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/slaters-and-other-winter-cereal-establishment-pests/) - In recent days we have received a number of reports of slater activity in winter cereal crops in southern Queensland and northern NSW. Slaters are not generally regarded as a pest of broad acre agriculture and tend to feed on decaying vegetation and dead animal matter. Overall they perform an important recycling role in the
- [Farm hygiene important in pest management](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/farm-hygiene-important-in-pest-management/) - David Murray, Toowoomba Farm hygiene is an important component of integrated pest management (IPM), particularly when it comes to managing pests such as cotton aphids and Cotton Bunchy Top (CBT) disease. Recent surveys of cotton-growing areas indicate the presence of aphids and CBT, and wetter conditions through the coming winter could favour the
- [Control considerations for Helicoverpa in chickpea](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/control-considerations-for-helicoverpa-in-chickpea/) - Control considerations – which product when? There is a range of products registered for helicoverpa control in chickpea. However, the use of synthetic pyrethroids is really only an option in regions where H. punctigera dominates, or where the population is predominantly made up of larvae smaller than 5 mm in length. The use of SPs
- [Diapause tool to identify helicoverpa risk](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/diapause-tool-to-identify-helicoverpa-risk/) - While there was a hefty presence of corn earworn or cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera, in the early and middle part of the 2007-08 season, pest activity has declined in recent weeks and for the most part they appear to pose no major risk. What is diapause? This is the time of the year when a
- [Whitefly Update](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/whitefly-update/) - Reports of increasing numbers of whitefly are filtering in from across the Downs. In some cases, numbers are sufficient to suggest that control of Silverleaf Whitefly (SLW) may be warranted. Correct identification and regular monitoring of populations is essential to determine if intervention is necessary. Which whiteflies are out there? Results of whitefly samples
- [Whitefly management options](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/whitefly-management-options/) - In the last week, reports from the Downs are suggesting that silverleaf whitefly (SLW) numbers have increased rapidly, and now there are a number of fields that have a population at or exceeding the treatment threshold. This posting has been compiled from information and discussion with Richard Sequeira (Principal Entomologist, Emerald) and Paul Grundy (Senior
- [Whitefly in crops this season](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/whitefly-in-crops-this-season/) - There is an increasing number of reports of whitefly in cotton crops on the Downs. Typically, whitefly start appearing in crops in mid to late summer, once populations have built up on weed hosts or other host crops (e.g. sunflower) adjacent to cotton crops.So far this season we have been able to make collections of
- [Will Rutherglen bug damage sorghum post grain fill?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/will-rutherglen-bug-damage-sorghum-post-grain-fill/) - As many of the early sorghum crops reach physiological maturity, and approach harvest, questions are being asked as to whether it is necessary to control large populations of nymphs in these crops. More specifically, whether these RGB will cause any damage to the maturing grain between physiological maturity and harvest. Photo: Dave Murray (BigBug)
- [Watch out for midge this season](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/watch-out-for-midge-this-season/) - Adam Hardy Senior Entomologist, Queensland Department of Primary Industries and Fisheries, Toowoomba. Photo: Adam Hardy (right) and Bernie Franzmann inspecting midge rating trials. Over the last decade sorghum midge have not caused many headaches for sorghum growers. However, staggered sorghum plantings mean that sorghum midge are likely to be found building up in
- [Rutherglen Bug in sorghum](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/rutherglen-bug-in-sorghum/) - Rutherglen bug infestations of grain sorghum This season we are seeing large infestations of Rutherglen bug (Nysius vinitor) (RGB) in sorghum crops from Central Queensland to the Downs, and further south. The large infestations are most likely a result of storm activity and the growth of weed hosts on which they breed up. RGB are
- [Getting the most from NPV sprays on grain sorghum](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/getting-the-most-from-npv-sprays-on-grain-sorghum/) - Some issues have recently been raised on the Darling Downs regarding the use of Helicoverpa nucleopolyhedrovirus (NPV) against corn earworm on grain sorghum. These issues involve the delay in time to kill and the level of control not necessarily meeting growers’ expectations. Seasonal conditions The last couple of weeks on the Downs have been cooler
- [Friendly fighter conquers foe](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/friendly-fighter-conquers-foe/) - Microplitis demolitor is just one of many friendly fighters that battle to contain numbers of one of our most important pests, the corn earworm, Helicoverpa armigera. Corn earworm on grain sorghum is making its presence felt and many crops are being sprayed with Helicoverpa nucleopolyhedrovirus (NPV) to control above-threshold infestations of caterpillars. The current high
- [Corn earworm chews into sorghum profits](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/corn-earworm-chews-into-sorghum-profits/) - Sorghum growers across the Darling Downs can expect to see an influx of the corn earworm, Helicoverpa armigera, in their flowering sorghum crops over the next few weeks. Growers are well equipped to deal with the problem in an environmentally friendly way. Moths are active and wanting to lay eggs on susceptible crops, and sorghum
- [Rutherglen bugs are everywhere!](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/rutherglen-bugs-are-everywhere/) - Rutherglen bug (Nysius vinitor)(RGB) is one of the insect species that arrives in crops in spring in large numbers, usually in association with storm activity. You may also have seen them on your windows and screens (and around the lights) at home in recent days. It is likely that the bugs are moving around in
- [Are corn earworm a problem in winter cereals?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/are-corn-earworm-a-problem-in-winter-cereals/) - Corn earworm, Helicoverpa armigera, are frequently found in winter cereals but usually numbers are too low to warrant control. Occasionally, however, corn earworm numbers may be sufficient to cause economic damage. The high value of today’s grain is further reason to carefully check for grub infestations. It is not unusual to find both corn earworm
- [No concern for tell-tale holes](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/no-concern-for-tell-tale-holes/) - Corn earworm larvae on vegetative sorghum crops produce characteristic holes in the leaves after feeding in the throat of the plant. These tell-tale signs are of no great concern as this type of feeding will not affect crop yield. The recent presence of high numbers of corn earworm, Helicoverpa armigera, on winter cereals and chickpea
- [Can you confidently identify armyworm and helicoverpa larvae in winter cereals?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/can-you-confidently-identify-armyworm-and-helicoverpa-larvae-in-winter-cereals/) - Both Helicoverpa armigera and armyworm larvae are occurring together in wheat and barley. It is important to be able to separate the helicoverpa larvae from the armyworm larvae in order to determine whether the numbers are above or below threshold, and, if needed, to make the most appropriate decision about control options. Armyworm larvae
- [WATCH FOR ARMYWORMS IN BARLEY AND OATS](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/watch-for-armyworms-in-barley-and-oats/) - With the current high value of barley, growers should closely monitor armyworm infestations as crops approach maturity. Armyworms are important pests in southern Queensland where they attack winter cereals, particularly barley and oats, in September and October. Larvae appear in plague proportions in some years, and are patchy in others. Head cutting by large larvae
- [Avoid a sticky situation...](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/avoid-a-sticky-situation/) - With cotton crops approaching cut-out, it’s time to make critical decisions regarding silverleaf whitefly (SLW) management. Recent hot weather has seen SLW numbers increase in many areas—indicating that a number of fields are likely to require control action soon. SLW has evolved to become one of the most complex insects to manage in a cotton system
- [Cereal Aphid Update](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/cereal-aphid-update/) - Making decisions about control of Cereal Aphids This post is an update on cereal aphid management following a number of enquiries from growers and agronomists over the last week or so. Which species in crops? There are two species of aphid you are most likely to encounter in winter cereals (oats, wheat and barley). They
- [Are aphids sucking away cereal profits?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/are-aphids-sucking-away-cereal-profits/) - Aphid control decisions tend to be more problematic in moisture stressed winter cereal crops, since in a well supplied crop the level of moisture extracted from the crop by aphids is of little concern. However, in dry times every drop seems precious. Had we not received the recent rain over the last few days throughout
- [St George growers meet to discuss area-wide SLW management](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/st-george-growers-meet-to-discuss-area-wide-slw-management/) - On Friday August 10, St George growers and agronomists met to discuss strategies to manage the Silverleaf whitefly population in the irrigation area. Over the past two seasons, a number of cotton fields in St George have been treated for SLW. Last year more fields were treated earlier, and required a second treatment. It is
- [A better way to make decisions about Helicoverpa control in chickpea](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/a-better-way-to-make-decisions-about-helicoverpa-control-in-chickpea/) - A new guide to calculating economic thresholds available now Growers and agronomists are now able to calculate how much yield they will lose if they do not control an infestation of helicoverpa in chickpea. They can calculate the point at which it is economic to control an infestation based on the potential yield loss, their
- [IPM Researchers Forum 2007](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/ipm-researchers-forum-2007/) - About 50 devoted enthusiasts of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) gathered in Toowoomba on 24-25 July 2007 for the annual Northern Farming Systems IPM Researchers Forum. Participants in the forum were from industry, research, extension and stakeholders. The aims of the IPM Forum were to exchange the latest information about research and projects and to maintain
- [Helicoverpa management in chickpea – a refresher](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/helicoverpa-management-in-chickpea-a-refresher/) - A comprehensive overview of Helicoverpa management in chickpea can be found in the DPI&F brochure Helicoverpa management in chickpea (2007). Key management decisions The following is an excerpt from the Helicoverpa management in chickpea brochure, and deals specificially with determining whether an infestation of helicoverpa warrants control – based on the economics of potential yield
- [Considerations when using pyriproxyfen on silverleaf whitefly](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/pyriproxyfen-and-silverleaf-whitefly/) - With the current season shaping up to be one of high insect pressure, we may see silverleaf whitefly (SLW), Bemisia tabaci reach problematic levels in regions outside of their traditional range. For growers and agronomists not familiar with their control it is worth investing some time to understand how one of the main registered insecticides,
- [Are there Russian wheat aphid in your wheat or barley? A short guide to checking and identifying.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/are-there-russian-wheat-aphid-in-your-wheat-or-barley-a-short-guide-to-checking-and-identifying/) - Key points Conditions suitable for the usual cereal aphid species will also be suitable for RWA. Aphid populations typically build rapidly in late July and August. Do not assume aphids in cereals are just the usual oat and corn aphid. In the event of a Russian wheat aphid (RWA) infestation, early detection in spring is
- [Spring pests of winter cereals](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/spring-pests-of-winter-cereals/) - Armyworm in barley and wheat. A number of reports of armyworm in crops have been received over the past couple of weeks. Numbers range from 30 to 50 per square metre (extreme) to a more typical 5 to10 larvae per square metre. Assessing larval density is done using a sweep net, bucket or beating a
- [Helicoverpa activity - pheromone catch map](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/helicoverpa-activity-pheromone-catches/) - Helicoverpa pheromone trap catches to 18 September 2015 This information is updated weekly on Fridays and/or the following Monday. Where the data for the current week is not yet available, click on the location marker to see data from previous weeks. The Northern region pheromone trap network is part of a national network of traps
- [Black Soil Scarab Damage to Winter Cereals](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/black-soil-scarab-damage-to-winter-cereals/) - This winter we’ve seen several instances of severe scarab damage to winter cereals (wheat, barley and oats) , including on crops at Jandowae and Felton on the Darling Downs. The photograph below shows that severe damage is mostly confined to areas of paddocks which were previously pasture – and this is where the highest scarab
- [Vegetable leafminer - new leaf-mining fly now in Australia](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/vegetable-leafminer-new-leaf-mining-fly-now-in-australia/) - Background A new leaf-mining fly, the vegetable leafminer (Liriomyza sativae), has recently been found at Seisia on the western side of the top of Cape York, Queensland. Originally from the Americas, since the 1980s this pest has spread westwards across the Pacific into Asia and has been island hopping across Torres Strait since 2008. Any suspected sightings
- [Impact of insecticides on silverleaf whitefly parasitoid](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/impact-of-insecticides-on-silverleaf-whitefly-parasitoid/) - The tiny wasp Eretmocerus hayati is an important natural enemy of silverleaf whitefly (SLW) and contributes to the natural biological control of this pest throughout the season. It occurs in almost all regions that grow cotton, but due to its small size (difficult to see without a hand lens) it often goes unnoticed. Like all
- [Making decisions about Rutherglen bug in maturing sorghum crops](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/making-decisions-about-rutherglen-bug-in-maturing-sorghum-crops/) - Rutherglen bug (RGB) numbers are persisting in many sorghum crops as they start to reach physiological maturity. Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) research has shown no evidence of yield loss as a result of direct feeding on grain once it reaches physiological maturity (black layer). However, because most crops this year have staggered
- [New APVMA permit for use of dimethoate to control mirids in faba beans.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/permit_mirids_faba-beans/) - In response to the recent confirmation of the damage potential of green mirids in faba beans, Pulse Australia has successfully applied to the APVMA for a permit to allow the use of dimethoate for the control of mirids in faba beans (PER82378). The permit is active from 1 June 2016 to 31 May 2021, and
- [Don’t let lucerne crown borer overwinter in your soybean stubble](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/dont-let-lucerne-crown-borer-overwinter-in-your-soybean-stubble/) - Once again, lucerne crown borer (LCB) (Zygrita diva) has been active in soybeans this season. Worst affected regions were the Northern Rivers and the Liverpool Plains in NSW, but reports were also fielded from the Bundaberg, Fassifern and Darling Downs regions in Queensland. In some of the severely affected crops, over 80% of plants were
- [Ladybirds enjoy a cotton aphid buffet](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/ladybirds-enjoy-an-aphid-buffet/) - The minute two-spotted ladybird beetle (Diomus notescens) and the transverse ladybird beetle (Coccinella transversalis) are two natural enemies of cotton aphid (Aphid gossypii). They are commonly found in Australian crops, however relatively little is known about their biology. A series of laboratory experiments were conducted by the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) to
- [A new pigeon pea variety for Bollgard 3 refuges](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/a-new-pigeon-pea-variety-for-bollgard-3-refuges/) - Pigeon peas represent about 80% of the refuges cultivated to offset Bollgard cotton in Australia due to the land area use efficiency of this option. However, over the years, varietal mixing and continual recycling of seed from undamaged refuges has resulted in peas that flower later in the season, increasingly lacking synchrony with Bollgard’s boll
- [Spring pest activity - Pulses and winter cereals.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/spring-pest-activity-pulses-and-winter-cereals/) - As temperatures start to warm up there are a number of insect pests becoming active and causing crop damage. This post provides an overview of current and potential issues for field crops. Helicoverpa populations in pulses have not really gone away over winter, but their activity is now increasing, with H. armigera moths already being
- [Good IPM starts in winter](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/good-ipm-starts-in-winter/) - Farm hygiene underpins the successful management of a number of major pests. The recent appearance of solonopsis mealybug has highlighted again the importance of farm hygiene. We already know from past experiences with silverleaf whitefly, aphids and bunchy top that it makes economic sense to keep on top of weeds and volunteer cotton. Good farm hygiene over winter is an investment in next season’s crop.
- [Late season winter crop pest management – remember to look out for armyworm and helicoverpa](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/late-season-winter-crop-pest-management-remember-to-look-out-for-armyworm-and-helicoverpa/) - As winter crops finish up and approach harvest, there are a couple of pests that still have the potential to cause some concerns. Armyworm and helicoverpa in barley, wheat and oats. There have been a number of reports of armyworm activity across the northern region in isolated pockets. Armyworm has the capacity to lop heads
- [Avenge of the caterpillars…](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/avenge-of-the-caterpillars/) - High rainfall and active plant growth have created perfect conditions for insects to build up in high numbers. On the Downs there have been reports of castor oil looper and common armyworm in plague numbers as well as other caterpillars including sorghum head caterpillar. Be on the lookout for caterpillar pests and use the guide
- [2018 Helicoverpa pheromone trapping in the Northern Grains region](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/2018-helicoverpa-pheromone-trapping-in-the-northern-grains-region/) - The 2018 spring Helicoverpa pheromone trapping program for the Northern Grains Region has recently concluded. The program, run by the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries for the Northern Grain Growing region, forms part of the national Helicoverpa monitoring network jointly run by DAF, cesar, SARDI, and DAFWA. The primary purpose of the trapping network
- [Plant-based and dynamic thresholds for mirids in early stage cotton.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/plant-based-and-dynamic-thresholds-for-mirids-in-early-stage-cotton/) - There have been a number of reports of mirid infestation in cotton on the Central Highlands and at St George. Recent research has focused on the development of plant-based thresholds that should make it easier to make decisions about mirid control. How do mirids damage early cotton? In the early stages of cotton, mirids feed
- [POSTPONED -Integrated pest management workshops in northern NSW](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/integrated-pest-management-workshops-in-northern-nsw/) - Please note: these workshops have been postponed to a later date A series of integrated pest management (IPM) workshops, funded by GRDC and free to participating agronomists and growers, will be conducted by DAFF Queensland entomologists in conjunction with NSW Local Land Services at the following locations; Spring Ridge Monday March 10 at 8.30 am -
- [Recognising caterpillar pests of canola.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/recognising-caterpillar-pests-of-canola/) - As canola sets and matures pods, and spring temperatures rise, there are a number of caterpillar pests that are active in this crop. Along with helicoverpa there are diamondback moth larvae (Plutella xylostella) and cabbage white butterfly larvae (Pieris rapae) in crops. It is critical that you can distinguish the species, and be familiar with
- [RWA as a pest in the northern grains region](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/rwa-as-a-pest-in-the-northern-grains-region/) - Russian wheat aphid (RWA) is considered a high priority pest by the grains industry because of its potential to cause significant yield losses in wheat and barley if not well managed. Triticale and rye are also susceptible to crop loss, but oats are considered relatively tolerant. It is inevitable that RWA will establish in the
- [Armyworms defoliating sorghum, millet and corn on the Downs](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/armyworms-defoliating-sorghum-millet-and-corn-on-the-downs/) - On the Darling Downs there have been a number of reports of common armyworm causing significant defoliation in sorghum, corn and millet. Jimbour grower John Alexander treated a severely defoliated sorghum crop two weeks ago. Millet and corn crops in the same area have also been affected. Although patchy, the outbreaks have the potential to
- [Bruchids infesting pulse crops in the field](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/bruchids-infesting-pulse-crops-in-the-field/) - There have been two reports recently of cowpea bruchid activity, with these pests infesting pulse crops in the field prior to harvest. The first report concerned the cowpea bruchid (weevil) Callosobruchus maculatus in field peas from Goondiwindi. The bruchids were noticed at intake and continued to breed in an untreated grain sample post-harvest. This clearly
- [Helicoverpa activity and management in chickpeas](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/helicoverpa-activity-and-management-in-chickpeas/) - Helicoverpa are the primary insect pest of chickpeas. Beneficial insects that are present in many crops do not thrive in chickpeas, so successful helicoverpa management relies heavily on monitoring and identification, appropriately timing control to crop stage, and using the recommended thresholds. Monitoring involves regular in-field checking with a beat sheet. Additionally, moth numbers can
- [Insect pest management in sorghum – a refresher](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/insect-pest-management-in-sorghum-a-refresher/) - Sorghum is most susceptible to crop loss from insect pests during flowering and grain fill, and this article deals mostly with these species (sorghum midge, helicoverpa and Rutherglen bug). However, some years there may be pest infestations in vegetative sorghum. Vegetative sorghum During the vegetative stages you may see a few armyworm or helicoverpa larvae
- [Chemigation for corn earworm control](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/chemigation-for-corn-earworm-control/) - Over recent years Helicoverpa nucleopolyhedrovirus (NPV) has demonstrated its versatility for corn earworm management. One of the major developments has been the effective application of NPV through overhead irrigation, sometimes referred to as ‘chemigation’.
- [Slugs in Seedling Crops](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/slugs-in-seedling-crops/) - The wet spring, early summer conditions have favoured the return of a pest not seen for many years – slugs! Damaging slug populations, reported in seedling crops in northern NSW and southern Queensland, have totally destroyed some pulse crops. Increased slug activity may also be due to the increase in zero/minimum till and stubble retention
- [Mirid research trials on the Darling Downs](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/mirid-research-trials-on-the-darling-downs/) - In order to keep you updated with entomology activities, the following article outlines the research trials to be conducted on mirids this season on the Darling Downs by Dr Moazzem Khan (Senior Entomologist, DEEDI, Toowoomba). Mirids have become regular pests of Bollgard® II cotton. Despite the development of good crop-stage thresholds and IPM options for
- [Helicoverpa larvae surviving in failed chickpea crops may be a threat to the following crop](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/helicoverpa-larvae-surviving-in-failed-chickpea-crops-may-be-a-threat-to-the-following-crop/) - With some chickpea crops being sprayed out, rather than harvested, there are reports of helicoverpa larvae surviving on crop residues. The survival of larvae, particularly large late instar larvae, poses a threat to subsequent crops that may be sown directly into the chickpea residues. It is important to check for surviving larvae under the chickpea
- [Rutherglen bug in canola stubble – potential to damage establishing summer crops.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/rutherglen-bug-in-canola-stubble-potential-to-damage-establishing-summer-crops/) - Rutherglen bug (RGB) are best known for the damage they can cause in sunflower and sorghum during grainfill, but they can also damage and even kill seedlings when present in large numbers. In 2012 RGB damaged establishing spring crops in areas of southern and northern NSW. This spring, in some crops there are large numbers
- [2011 IPM forum highlights](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/2011-ipm-forum-highlights/) - More than 50 researchers, extension staff and industry representatives attended this year’s IPM forum in Toowoomba. The IPM forum is an annual event and brings together researchers and industry to discuss the latest research and developments in pest management for the Northern region. Topics presented at the forum consist of a mix of current research
- [IPM Forums for growers and advisers - Thursday July 28th, 2011](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/ipm-forums-for-growers-and-advisers-thursday-july-28th-2011/) - These Forums, for growers and advisers, will provide an opportunity to hear about recent research into the management of insect pests in grains and cotton. Researchers will be able to discuss with you strategies and options for the upcoming season, what to look out for, and how to minimise your risk of losses caused by key insect
- [Mites invade mungbeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/mites-invade-mungbeans/) - Two spotted mites (TSM) or red spider mites have been reported in damaging numbers in many mungbean crops on the Darling Downs and in Northern NSW. Crops at particular risk are those adjacent to maturing cotton (or any other mite hosts) from which mites are dispersing in large numbers. As TSM are very small (0.5 mm)
- [Helicoverpa and midge management in sorghum](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/helicoverpa-and-midge-management-in-sorghum/) - As crops come into head and start to fill grain, sorghum midge and helicoverpa will start to infest crops. Making a decision about when control is warranted is made somewhat easier with the availability of economic threshold calculators now available on the Beatsheet Blog (https://thebeatsheet.com.au/sampling-2/); or use the ready reckoners in this article. MANAGEMENT OF
- [Making a decision about control of aphids in winter cereals](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/making-a-decision-about-control-of-aphids-in-winter-cereals/) - As the weather warms up aphid populations are becoming more obvious in crops. With aphid populations more visible in the crop, the key questions are whether they will impact on the yield of the crop, and whether it is necessary to control the aphids to avoid yield loss. Aphid infestations are widespread this year in both barley
- [Podborer pesticides under the spotlight in mungbeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/podborer-pesticides-under-the-spotlight-in-mungbeans/) - Severe and sustained bean podborer (Maruca vitrata) outbreaks were widely reported in mungbeans over the past 2 summers.. Populations in excess of 100 larvae per square metre were observed in many crops. If left uncontrolled such populations not only impact on crop yield by reducing pod set, they also severely damage the pods that are
- [Watch out for the Blues](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/watch-out-for-the-blues/) - Noticeable numbers of grass blue butterfly larvae (Zizina labradus) have been observed in young soybean crops in the Wide Bay Burnett. While the small green larvae (maximum length 10 mm) may be difficult to see in the crops, the damage they cause is very obvious. Grass blue butterfly larvae feeding results in windowing of the
- [Beware of Apple Dimpling bugs](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/beware-of-apple-dimpling-bugs/) - There have been several reports of high numbers of apple dimpling bug (ADB) in early squaring cotton throughout the major cotton growing valleys. Also known as the yellow mirid, ADB adults (about 3mm long) are about one third the size of green mirid adults. They are yellow-green, have dark spines on the legs and hairy wings
- [Early season aphid identification and management considerations in cotton](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/early-season-aphid-identification-and-management-considerations-in-cotton-3/) - As the cotton season gets underway aphids are starting to be detected in crops, on ratoons, volunteers and weeds. Last season, there were some regions where Cotton Bunchy Top (CBT) was detected in crops towards the end of the season. To assess and manage the risk of yield loss caused by CBT, and minimise the
- [Helicoverpa and NPV in Sorghum – Current Issues](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/helicoverpa-and-npv-in-sorghum-current-issues-4/) - As the earlier plantings of sorghum progress through flowering, moderate to high Helicoverpa pressure means that many crops have caterpillar numbers over threshold. Nucleopolyhedrovirus (NPV) is one of the main insecticides used to control Helicoverpa larvae in sorghum, however prevailing conditions play an important role in the speed and level of control achieved with NPV.
- [Paul Grundy joins Toowoomba team](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/paul-grundy-joins-toowoomba-team/) - Dr Paul Grundy has joined the Field Crops Entomology team in Toowoomba as Senior Entomologist. Paul has moved to Toowoomba from Ayr where he was involved in evaluating the viability of cotton production in the Burdekin. Prior to his time in the Burdekin, Paul was based in Biloela. During his 7 years in Central Queensland,
- [2010-11 Annual Silverleaf Whitefly Resistance Testing Results and Implications for Management in the coming Season.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/2010-11-annual-silverleaf-whitefly-resistance-testing-results-and-implications-for-management-in-the-coming-season/) - Last season was a somewhat low pressure year for silverleaf whitefly (SLW) in all cotton districts. The low pressure may have been attributed in part to high rainfall especially through central Queensland which does not favour whitefly population build up. St George and Mungindi districts still reached densities that exceeded the recommended insecticide spray thresholds
- [Season wrap-up for Whitefly in Cotton](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/season-wrap-up-for-whitefly-in-cotton/) - Outlined in today’s blog are the results for whitefly parasitism assessments, whitefly species composition and whitefly resistance testing from the 2009-2010 cotton season. SPECIES COMPOSITION There has been no Q biotype detected by DEEDI entomology staff since surveillance commenced in April 2009. While Q biotype may be present in Australia at very low densities, it
- [Castor Oil Looper outbreak](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/castor-oil-looper-outbreak/) - Over the past week we have had several enquiries about large numbers of caterpillars destroying plants in home gardens. This pest has now been identified as castor oil looper - Achaea janata. While the entomology team does not generally report on home garden issues, this pest can also affect broadleaf crops such as soybeans and
- [How to check for parasitism in whitefly populations.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/how-to-check-for-parasitism-in-whitefly-populations/) - We have fielded numerous enquiries this week from consultants who would like to assess levels of whitefly parasitism. This is achievable in the field with the use of a hand lens. Parasitism levels appear to be a little down from last year, but still good levels have been recovered. Parasitism so far has ranged from
- [Exotic mealybug species - a major new pest in cotton](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/exotic-mealybug-species-a-major-new-pest-in-cotton/) - Biosecurity Queensland has confirmed an outbreak of an exotic species of mealybug currently affecting cotton properties in Emerald is also present in cotton crops in the Burdekin region. The exotic species of mealy bug is commonly known as the Solenopsis mealybug (Phenacoccus solenopsis). The Solenopsis mealybug is a native of North America – first collected
- [Brown stink bugs in cotton - by Moazzem Khan](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/brown-stink-bugs-in-cotton-by-moazzem-khan/) - Distinguishing 'brown' stink bugs from each other. Adults brown stink bugs (Dictyotus caenosus) are shield shaped, matt brown, and smaller than green vegetable bug (GVB), about 7 – 8 mm long (Plate 1). They may be confused with glossy shield bug (Cermatulus nasalis) which is a slightly larger predatory bug, and with rice spotting bug
- [Managing Helicoverpa softly in vegetative soybeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/managing-helicoverpa-softly-in-vegetative-soybeans/) - While soybeans are more likely to be attacked by helicoverpa from flowering onwards, severe infestations can occur as early as the seedling stage. In recent years, severe early infestations have been reported on the Downs and in the coastal Burnett, the affected crops experiencing significant yield losses.
- [Research developments in Solenopsis mealybug management and boll rot in cotton.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/research-developments-in-solenopsis-mealybug-management-and-boll-rot-in-cotton/) - Solenopsis mealybug (Phenacoccus solenopsis) was first identified at Emerald and the Burdekin during the 2009-10 cotton growing season. This sucking pest causes leaf distortion, stunting and reduced boll size and number. Heavy infestations can lead to plant death. Solenopsis mealybugs also produce a honeydew which affects photosynthesis and leads to sooty mould development on lint.
- [An economic threshold calculator for Helicoverpa in chickpeas](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/an-economic-threshold-calculator-for-helicoverpa-chickpeas/) - Calculating the economics of control is critical to making a decision about if and when Helicoverpa populations in chickpeas require treatment. This season, for the first time, growers and agronomists have access to an on-line calculator to help them make these decisions. The calculator overcomes the need to try and remember the formulas in
- [Management of Rutherglen bug in seedling crops, sorghum and sunflower - updated](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/management-of-rutherglen-bug-in-seedling-crops-sorghum-and-sunflower/) - Since early November, large numbers of Rutherglen bug (RGB) have been migrating into cropping regions from northern NSW through to Central Queensland. Whilst the exact origin of the bugs is unknown, it is likely that they are being carried on storm fronts from inland regions where they have bred up over winter and spring on
- [Etiella outbreak in vegetative soybeans on the Darling Downs](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/etiella-outbreak-in-vegetative-soybeans-on-the-darling-downs/) - Etiella (Etiella behrii) larvae have been observed in significant numbers (up to 10 larvae per square metre) in vegetative soybean crops in the Cecil Plains/ Pampas regions of the Darling Downs, and in low numbers (
- [Mealybug outbreak found on the Darling Downs](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/mealybug-outbreak-found-on-the-darling-downs/) - DAFF Queensland entomologists have confirmed a small outbreak of Solenopsis mealybug (Phenacoccus solenopsis) on a cotton property west of Dalby on the Darling Downs. This is the same species of mealybug that affected cotton crops in Emerald and the Burdekin in 2010 and more recently in the South Burnett. When infested at the early development
- [Spot the Difference](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/spot-the-difference/) - Large numbers of different spotted larvae have recently been observed in many mungbean crops. The spotted larvae of the bean pod borer remains a significant pest of mungbeans yet the spotted fungus eating ladybird larvae poses no threat to crops. In recent years, significant populations of bean podborer larvae (Maruca vitrata) have been reported in
- [New pest management website](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/new-pest-management-website/) - Over the past few years the Queensland DAFF entomology team has led a team of national collaborators to develop an exciting new national ‘IPM guidelines for grains’ website. The website focuses on the major grain crops and their pests, and includes a range of sup­port­ing infor­ma­tion to guide users in mak­ing pest management decisions. What
- [Check for establishment pests before planting summer crops](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/check-for-establishment-pests-before-planting-summer-crops/) - Crops are most susceptible to pest damage at the seedling stage. Pests feeding on seedlings can reduce plant establishment, increase weed competition, delay flowering and lower yields. In some cases there may be a need for re-sowing. Most of the establishment pests found in the northern region are soil-dwelling insects. Soil insects may be difficult
- [Hugh Brier awarded GRDC's Seed of Light, Northern Region.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/hugh-brier-awarded-grdcs-seed-of-light-northern-region/) - DAFF Queensland Entomologist, Hugh Brier, is the 2014 Northern region recipient of GRDC's Seed of Light. The Seed of Light is presented each year to someone who makes a significant contribution to communicating the outcomes of research. Hugh started with the Queensland Government as an experimentalist in 1974. First based in Toowoomba; having completed a
- [Downs update – Symphyla and other soil pests](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/downs-update-symphyla-and-other-soil-pests/) - Following the recent detection of symphyla in some cotton fields on the Darling Downs, DAFF Entomology have been testing sampling strategies for this potential pest of cotton. Literature for a similar symphyla species in North America suggested that baiting with potatoes may be an effective strategy for assessing symphyla abundance and whether individuals were actively
- [Symphylans recently detected causing establishment problems in cotton on the Darling Downs](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/symphylans-recently-detected-causing-establishment-problems-in-cotton-on-the-darling-downs/) - An investigation into poor establishment in a field of cotton west of Dalby this week confirmed the presence of the soil dwelling symphyla as the likely cause. Symphylans are relatively common in most soils where they generally feed on decomposing organic matter. Symphyla as crop pests Symphyla have caused problems with crop establishment for a
- [Whitefly in establishing canola crops - Central NSW](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/whitefly-in-establishing-canola-crops-central-nsw/) - Over the past couple of weeks there have been reports of whitefly adults infesting canola in the Central West and Lachlan regions of NSW. This is not an occurrence that has been recorded before, so we don't know conclusively what the outcome will be of these infestations. What I have done is pulled together information
- [Pod and stem boring pests of soybean – an update](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/pod-and-stem-boring-pests-of-soybean-an-update/) - The 2013/14 soybean growing season has been challenging for many growers with very low rainfall and high temperatures until late March. Crop stress was sometimes wrongly attributed to insect pests although a number of crops were infested with more unusual pests such as etiella. The high temperatures also increased the impact of lucerne crown borer
- [Release of insect identification guide for pulse industry in the North region](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/release-of-insect-identification-guide-for-pulse-industry-in-the-north-region-2/) - The recently published “Good Bug, Bad Bug” insect identification guide will be an invaluable tool for pulse producers in Queensland and NSW. The new guide features over 300 glossy photos of insects found in pulse crops and will help growers and their advisers to confidently identify the pest and beneficial insects that occur in their
- [White-fringed weevil damaging field peas in Bundaberg](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/white-fringed-weevil-damaging-field-peas-in-bundaberg/) - The white-fringed weevil (Naupactus leucoloma) originates from South America and was first reported in NSW in 1932. Although generally associated with warm moist conditions, this pest is now found in many cropping areas throughout Australia and they appear to be increasing their range. Infestations often go unnoticed until crops are planted and once they are
- [Watch for Rutherglen bugs moving from canola into neighbouring crops.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/watch-for-rutherglen-bugs-moving-from-canola-into-neighbouring-crops/) - Rutherglen bug (RGB) numbers in canola stubble are again high in some fields. These infestations pose a risk to neighbouring crops, either through damage to establishing summer crops or contamination of unharvested winter crops. Both the canola and adjacent crops warrant monitoring for RGB infestation and movement out of the canola field. If large number of nymphs
- [Leaf mining fly (Agromyzid) infestations in wheat in NW NSW and southern Qld](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/leaf-mining-fly-agromyzid-infestations-in-wheat-in-nw-nsw-and-southern-qld/) - Leaf mining caused by Agromyzid flies has recently been reported in wheat crops in the Goondiwindi/ Toobeah (late August) and Quirindi (late September) regions. Consultants reported their initial impression was that the damage symptoms, pale stripes on the leaves, resembled old stripe rust infections. However on closer inspection, the leaves were actually a windowed with
- [Grass blue butterfly damage to navy bean pods](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/grass-blue-butterfly-damage-to-navy-bean-pods/) - The larvae of the grass blue butterfly (Zizina labradus) are normally minor leaf feeding pests, although they can be damaging in seedling crops where they attack terminals and axillary buds. Soybeans are their favoured summer pulse host, but they can also attack other pulses including navy beans. Damage Recently, grass blue butterfly larvae have been
- [Etiella alert for mungbean on the Darling Downs, Goondiwindi and Northern NSW growing regions](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/etiella-alert-for-mungbean-on-the-darling-downs-goondiwindi-and-northern-nsw-growing-regions/) - A significant etiella outbreak was recently reported in pod-filling mungbean in the Moree region of North Western NSW. In this particular crop, it is estimated that etiella larvae have infested pods on 50% of plants. Etiella eggs, at low densities, were also recently observed in an early flowering crop near Bungunya (west of Goondiwindi, Qld).
- [Helicoverpa activity and other pests to watch for in winter crops.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/helicoverpa-activity-and-other-pests-to-watch-for-in-winter-crops/) - Helicoverpa armigera active now. This spring a number of agronomists have just started monitoring pheromone traps across the northern region, and the results from the past two weeks illustrate how useful pheromone traps can be. Over the past 1-2 weeks, the traps are catching relatively high numbers of Helicoverpa armigera, and low catches of H. punctigera. In September
- [Etiella in mungbeans and soybeans – do we manage the threat or the pest?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/etiella-in-mungbeans-and-soybeans-do-we-manage-the-threat-or-the-pest/) - There is an understandable level of concern about how best to manage etiella (Etiella behrii) in summer mungbean crops following the unexpectedly high etiella infestations (and corresponding seed damage and contamination) in spring mungbean crops on the Downs and in Central Queensland and North Western New South Wales. Responding to the etiella threat without reacting
- [Soybean moth active in North Queensland](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/soybean-moth-active-in-north-queensland/) - Significant soybean moth activity has recently been reported in some Burdekin soybean crops. Soybean moth is a generally a minor soybean pest but significant outbreaks have been reported periodically in all soybean growing regions. Feeding damage Larvae feed mostly within the leaves, making distinctive pale leaf mines, and often distorting leaves. Soybean moth is present
- [Lucerne crown borer on the move in soybean in 2015](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/lucerne-crown-borer-on-the-move-in-soybean-in-2015/) - Lucerne crown borer (Zygrita diva) (LCB) is causing severe damage in a number of soybean crops in the Bundaberg region of SE Qld, and on the North Coast region of NSW. In some cases up to 75% of plants are infested and early plant death is evident. Damage seems to be worse in the early
- [Confirmation of green mirid damage potential in faba beans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/confirmation-of-green-mirid-damage-potential-in-faba-beans/) - Over the past two winters, agronomists and growers have been asking whether the green mirids that they are finding in faba beans are doing any damage. Until now, the short answer to that was that we simply didn’t know. In 2014 Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) Entomology conducted a preliminary trial to determine if
- [Thrip damage to early summer crops](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/thrip-damage-to-early-summer-crops/) - Emerging and vegetative summer crops in close proximity to unharvested winter crop are at risk of thrip damage, but the damage is largely cosmetic and rarely warrants treating. Thrips breed up in winter cereals, and particularly after rain, will move out of the winter crops in huge numbers. Most of you will be familiar with
- [Predicting helicoverpa development rate in finishing and late pulse/canola crops](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/predicting-helicoverpa-development-rate-in-finishing-and-late-pulsecanola-crops/) - As the early and moisture stressed crops finish up, and those that were under a storm kick on, it is challenging to try and estimate whether small helicoverpa larvae in the crop should be controlled, or whether the crop will finish up before they get to a damaging size. There are a few things to
- [Helicoverpa armigera emergence from diapause boosts trap catches.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/helicoverpa-armigera-emergence-from-diapause-boosts-trap-catches/) - Helicoverpa moth activity to 19 October, 2015. Over the past 1-2 weeks we have seen increasing H. armigera catches in the pheromone traps across Queensland (Qld) and northern New South Wales (NSW). The series of graphs of H. armigera and H. punctigera trap catches from August to 19 October are below. Included with these graphs
- [Monitoring for establishment pests prior to sowing.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/monitoring-for-establishment-pests-prior-to-sowing/) - Where there is a history of soil insect damage resulting in poor crop establishment a pre-sowing inspection of the affected fields is warranted to determine the likely risk to the upcoming summer crop. Grain baits are an effective way of monitoring for soil-dwelling insect pests of summer crops, and is preferable to sampling with a
- [Industry award for Hugh Brier](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/industry-award-for-hugh-brier/) - Hugh Brier, Department of Agriculture and Fisheries senior entomologist based at Kingaroy, has been recognised for his outstanding contribution to the summer grains industries with an award at the recent Australian Summer Grains Conference. Hugh has dedicated his career with DAF to supporting the grains industries and it is fantastic to see this contribution again
- [An infestation of entomologists at Kingaroy](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/an-infestation-of-entomologists-at-kingaroy/) - It seems the warm weather is not only causing the pests to multiply in the South Burnett—the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) Kingaroy Research Station has tripled its entomologists! Hugh ‘Bugs’ Brier has now been joined by Dr Liz Williams (research entomologist) and Trevor Volp (technical officer – entomology). Both positions were made possible
- [Bean podborer on the move in mungbeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/bean-podborer-on-the-move-in-mungbeans/) - Bean podborer (Maruca vitrata) have been observed in large numbers (>20/m2) in flowering/podding mungbeans planted from January onwards in the Burnett region. They are likely to be present in other coastal/subcoastal regions such as the Burdekin, Callide Valley and the Wide Bay/Burnett (particularly in late-planted crops), and to a lesser extent in the eastern Darling
- [High <em>Helicoverpa armigera</em> (corn earworm) activity now being seen in winter cereals](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/high-helicoverpa-armigera-in-winter-cereals/) - Large flights of helicoverpa over the last 2 weeks (or longer in some districts) have seen significant eggs lays and larval populations in winter crops, including the winter cereals. It is not unusual to find both corn earworm and armyworm in cereal crops. Correct identification of the species present is very important as it influences
- [Would you like to know whether you have resistant weeds on your farm?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/would-you-like-to-know-whether-you-have-resistant-weeds-on-your-farm/) - Over the next few months, you have the opportunity to have weed seed collection and resistance testing undertaken on your farm by the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF). The Grain Research and Development Corporation (GRDC) has contracted DAF to undertake the survey of weeds and herbicide resistance on grain-producing farms throughout Queensland.
- [Pest Alert: Russian wheat aphid (Diuraphis noxia)](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/pest-alert-russian-wheat-aphid-diuraphis-noxia/) - Call Biosecurity Queensland on 13 25 23 if you see this pest Russian wheat aphid (Diuraphis noxia) has been found on over 1,400 square kilometres of land in the mid-north of South Australia. Russian wheat aphid is a major pest of cereal crops which injects toxins into the plant during feeding, retarding growth and killing
- [Seedling thrips in spring mungbean crops](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/seedling-thrips-in-spring-mungbean-crops/) - There have been several reports of seedling thrips in spring mungbean crops in the Goondiwindi region. Seedling thrips (Thrips tabaci) are also known as winter cereal thrips or cotton seedling thrips. The thrips move out of winter cereals when these start to dry off into new green spring growth such as mungbean, navy beans or
- [Whitefly in establishing grain crops](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/whitefly-in-establishing-grain-crops/) - This summer silverleaf whitefly (SLW) populations have been extremely high in many cotton crops, particularly in NSW. As these crops are defoliated, large numbers of SLW are moving out of the cotton into surrounding vegetation, including emerging grain crops. Whilst the number of SLW adults landing in seedling canola, wheat, faba beans and cereals can
- [Soybean moth active again in 2017 in coastal Queensland](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/soybean-moth-active-again-in-2017-in-coastal-queensland/) - Major soybean moth outbreaks have recently been reported in some coastal Burnett soybean crops, and lesser outbreaks in crops in the Burdekin. Soybean moth is generally a minor soybean pest but major outbreaks have been reported periodically in all soybean growing regions. In extreme cases, crops can be totally defoliated. Feeding damage Larvae feed mostly
- [Assessing predator and parasitoid activity using sentinel prey](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/assessing-predator-and-parasitoid-activity-using-sentinel-prey/) - Of importance to agronomists is how pest populations are changing over time and the likely impact predators will have on the pest population. Predator and parasitoid activity can be difficult to assess under field conditions, particularly the rate at which beneficials can find pest species. In this research, sentinel prey were used to gauge the
- [ENDOSULFAN registration cancelled](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/endosulfan-registration-cancelled/) - On the 12th of October, 2010, the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) announced the immediate cancellation of all product registrations and label approvals for all insecticides containing endosulfan. This decision follows a recent assessment of new information by the Department of Sustainability, Environment, Water, Population and Communities (DSEWPC) that the prolonged use of
- [New aphid found in faba beans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/new-aphid-found-in-faba-beans/) - Megoura crassicauda has been found in parts of north-east and central New South Wales (Sydney, Tamworth, and Breeza). The species originated in north-east Asia, and is closely related to the vetch aphid (Megoura viciae), found in Europe, Ethiopia and North America. Its host range is mostly limited to Vicia species - vetches, faba or broad
- [Helicoverpa pheromone trapping program concluded for 2017](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/helicoverpa-pheromone-trapping-program-concluded-for-2017/) - The Helicoverpa pheromone trapping program has recently concluded for the 2017 Winter/Spring season. The program, run by the Queensland Department of Agriculture and Fisheries for the Northern Grain Growing region, forms part of the national Helicoverpa monitoring network jointly run by cesar, SARDI, and DAFWA. The primary purpose of the trapping network is to detect
- [Mealybugs in cotton](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/mealybugs-in-cotton/) - Outbreaks of mealybugs have recently been reported from a number of cotton farms in central Queensland. While mealybugs are considered a minor pest of cotton, they have, on rare occasions, reached minor outbreak levels or \'hotspots\' in commercial crops in central Queensland.
- [Etiella on the move again](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/etiella-on-the-move-again-2/) - Background: Significant etiella outbreaks have recently been reported in soybeans and mungbeans on the Darling Downs, in the South Burnett (SE Qld) and in the Moree and NorthernRivers regions of NSW. In some soybean crops on the Downs, 100% of plants were infested and 72% of axilliary buds damaged to varying degrees. These outbreaks are
- [Aphids in canola](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/aphids-in-canola/) - There are a number of canola crops in this season, and as the weather warms up the aphid numbers are building up in some of them. The aphids that colonise canola are most commonly the cabbage and the turnip aphid. There may also be a few green peach aphid present. The aphids colonise the terminal
- [Hot weather heats up pest activity](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/hot-weather-heats-up-pest-activity/) - A common misconception is that, like humans, pests become more lethargic in hot weather. Unfortunately, the opposite is true—in most cases warmer weather actually speeds up pest growth with pests reaching a damaging size and pest populations increasing more quickly. Also, hot weather is often associated with little or no rain. And rain, particularly heavy
- [Always read and follow the label when using agrochemicals](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/always-read-and-follow-the-label-when-using-agrochemicals/) - While agrochemicals are an important component of many pest management programs, care must be taken to ensure that any spray operations use registered products that are applied according to the product label. The manager of an Emerald farm has recently been fined $10,000, pleading guilty to a breach of the Chemical Usage (Agriculture &Veterinary) Control
- [Identifying the larvae of common ladybird species](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/identifying-the-larvae-of-common-ladybird-species/) - Adult ladybird beetles are one of the most easily recognisable natural enemies in cropping systems. Both adults and larvae are voracious predators, and can have a considerable impact on pest populations, particularly aphids. Several species of ladybird beetles are commonly encountered each year in grain, pulse and cotton crops. Ladybirds are often attracted into crops
- [Industry alert – Russian wheat aphids found in South Australia](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/industry-alert-russian-wheat-aphids-found-in-south-australia/) - The South Australian government are currently responding to detections of Russian wheat aphid (Diuraphis noxia), which was initially found on a property in Tarlee in South Australia on 13 May 2106. Since the first detection, Russian wheat aphid has been found on a further 22 properties within 1,400 square kilometres, and the number is expected
- [Rutherglen bugs in cotton – cause for concern?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/rutherglen-bugs-in-cotton-cause-for-concern/) - Contributors: Susan Maas (CRDC), Lewis Wilson (CSIRO) There are currently reports of high numbers of Rutherglen bugs (RGB) in cotton across a number of growing regions (Downs, Namoi, Gwydir), and questions being asked about whether this pest can cause damage to reproductive cotton. This season has seen large spring migrations of RGB into cropping areas
- [Getting Pale Cotton Stainer identification right](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/getting-pale-cotton-stainer-identification-right/) - Over the past few weeks there have been reports of cotton stainers in cotton crops in Central Queensland and on the Darling Downs. This week we received photographs of ‘stainers’ from CQ which raised the importance of correct identification. The photograph below is of a species called Graptostethus servus (seed eating bug), which has been
- [Dealing with chemical shortages for whitefly management – Zara Ludgate](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/dealing-with-chemical-shortages-for-whitefly-management-–-zara-ludgate/) - We have received numerous enquiries about whitefly in the last week especially from the MacIntrye and Lower Namoi areas. Shortages of chemicals to control whitefly is currently of major concern to many growers and consultants in this region. Many enquiries also relate to species identification. Whitefly samples identified from the MacIntyre and Lower Namoi areas
- [Pesky thrips in cotton](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/pesky-thrips-in-cotton/) - Just when you thought things were going along pretty well, something else pops out of the woodwork to bring you back down to earth. Some cotton consultants and their grower clients are concerned about the high numbers of thrips in their young cotton seedlings. Are they are problem? Do we need to control them? Essentially,
- [Recce for armyworm in winter cereals](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/recce-for-armyworm-in-winter-cereals/) - The quick finish for winter cereals this season has resulted in the majority of crops escaping infestations of armyworm. Headers are already into some fields, but there are reports of armyworm making their presence felt in some of the later crops. Being aware of their presence is one thing; whether to intervene is another. In
- [Resistance Update on the Road](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resistance-update-on-the-road/) - The Resistance Roadshow visited regional areas during late August and presented the latest resistance monitoring results for a suite of important pests. Presentations covered resistance to conventional insecticides in cotton aphids, mites, silverleaf whitefly and helicoverpa, and helicoverpa resistance to the Bt toxins in Bollgard II. Photo: Downs agronomist Bernie Caffery (right) discusses resistance with
- [Late season pests of pulses and cotton](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/late-season-pests-of-pulses-and-cotton/) - Go soft early Go soft early is a basic integrated pest management (IPM) strategy to avoid using non selective pesticides for as long as possible. This approach encourages a build up of predators and parasites to keep early pests in check and buffer the crop against attack later in the season. This strategy is particularly
- [Silverleaf whitefly update](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/silverleaf-whitefly-update/) - There are reports of large infestations of silverleaf whitefly (SLW) from the Narrabri/Moree region. Exponential growth in whitefly numbers coupled with honeydew on leaves indicates that the whitefly are probably SLW and not East Australian native Bemisia or Greenhouse whitefly (GHW). It is thought that increased host plant availability from a wet winter/spring, warm conditions
- [Silverleaf whitefly in cotton – an update](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/silverleaf-whitefly-in-cotton-–-an-update/) - Silverleaf whitefly (SLW) is a serious pest of cotton. It reduces yield and quality of cotton due to feeding damage and excretion of honey dew. It is a difficult pest to manage due to its ability to rapidly increase in numbers and the development of resistance to many insecticides. Resistance testing for the 2007-08 season
- [NORpak Cotton Production and Management Guidelines for the Burdekin and Coastal dry tropics - New publication available now.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/norpak-cotton-production-and-management-guidelines-for-the-burdekin-and-coastal-dry-tropics-new-publication-available-now/) - DAFF, and partners the Cotton Catchments Communities CRC and CSIRO, launched NORpak on 10 July in the Burdekin, North Queensland. The book is focused on providing sound agronomic advice for anyone who would like to know more about growing cotton in this dynamic region. However, some of the tactics discussed provide food for thought for growers
- [Is that larva dying, or still causing damage? Recognising the symptoms of newer insecticides on helicoverpa larvae](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/is-that-larva-dying-or-still-causing-damage-recognising-the-symptoms-of-newer-insecticides-on-helicoverpa-larvae/) - As more growers and agronomists look to rotate insecticides for helicoverpa control in grain crops as part of a sound resistance management strategy, uncertainty about how to tell if larvae are actually dying, or had escaped control for some reason has emerged as a concern in some instances. These cases, where larvae have not died
- [How much plant material do Helicoverpa larvae consume after ingesting insecticide?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/how-much-plant-material-do-helicoverpa-larvae-consume-after-ingesting-insecticide/) - As a part of a new insecticide resistance management strategy in grain crops, growers and agronomists are looking to rotate insecticides for Helicoverpa sp. control. Following enquiries from industry, DAF entomology have been conducting research on the range of newer insecticides available for controlling Helicoverpa larvae. In work previously published on the Beatsheet, we have
- [Rutherglen bug damage in mungbeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/rutherglen-bug-damage-in-mungbeans/) - Although typically only in low numbers in the Northern Grains region, Rutherglen bugs (RGB; Nysius vinitor) were observed at very high densities (e.g. 50 RGB per pod) in many crops last year. A glasshouse study was conducted to determine at what plant stage mungbeans were most susceptible to RGB damage, in terms of both yield
- [IPM Workshops: Narromine, Gunnedah, Warialda. September 2014.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/ipm-workshops-narromine-gunnedah-warialda-september-2014/) - Insect management in grain crops workshop for advisers and growers (September 2014) These 1-day workshops for advisers and growers will explore effective and sustainable management strategies, with a focus on pests of local significance. The morning sessions are indoors, and the after lunch sessions in the field (weather permitting) to discuss practical aspects of pest
- [I think I may have solenopsis mealybug in my cotton – what do I do?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/solenopsis-mealybug-in-my-cotton/) - Solenopsis mealybug can be found throughout Queensland’s cropping areas and has also been confirmed in Western Australia, the Northern Territory and Victoria. Whilst solenopsis has not yet been confirmed in NSW cotton crops it would be reasonable to assume that it is likely to be present in the broader landscape and it is only a
- [Being prepared for Russian wheat aphid in the Northern grains region](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/being-prepared-for-russian-wheat-aphid-in-the-northern-grains-region/) - The spread of Russian wheat aphid (RWA) (Diuraphis noxia) in the Northern grains region is considered inevitable. When it might be detected in wheat and barley is less clear as the key drivers of its spread are not well understood in Australia. Wind is likely to play a part in moving winged aphids from south
- [Thresholds and changing sorghum crop value](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/thresholds-and-changing-sorghum-crop-value/) - Growers and consultants need to revise the thresholds used for important insect pests of grain sorghum such as corn earworm and sorghum midge in light of lower prices currently being offered. With new crop grain sorghum prices below $200 per tonne, the break even cost of control means that higher pest numbers (density) are needed
- [Refresher on managing helicoverpa in chickpea](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/refresher-on-managing-helicoverpa-in-chickpea/) - With the approach of spring, helicoverpa start to become active. In CQ, chickpea crops are attractive to moths, and it is timely to revisit some of the key points related to making decisions about control of this pest in crops.In this article, I wanted to discuss a couple of the recommendations which some growers and
- [What are those grubs in winter cereals?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/what-are-those-grubs-in-winter-cereals/) - Grubs in winter cereals are not unusual at this time of year, and already there have been reports of high numbers (up to 20/m2) in Central Queensland wheat (Figure 1). More grubs can be expected in southern districts as the season warms up. The two most likely larvae (grubs) found in winter cereals are the
- [What is eating my soybean pods?](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/what-is-eating-my-soybean-pods/) - Field crickets High numbers of field crickets have been reported across the Darling Downs in the last couple of weeks, with some large aggregations of adults attracted to lights at night. Are these crickets doing damage to crops? The answer may well be yes. . Field crickets are generally a pest of pastures but can
- [Bring on NPV against grubs on grain sorghum](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/bring-on-npv-against-grubs-on-grain-sorghum/) - Every year caterpillars of the corn earworm (helicoverpa), Helicoverpa armigera, cause losses to sorghum crops. Regular inspection during flowering is important to detect caterpillar infestations and properly time control measures. Pre-flowering heads of grain sorghum are very attractive to egg-laying moths of the corn earworm. On any individual head, most eggs are laid prior to
- [The Beat Sheet is now a blog](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/the-beat-sheet-is-now-a-blog/) - Hi, and welcome to the first online edition of The Beat Sheet - a blog focussed on integrated pest management news relevant to Australia's northern grain region. Until now, The Beat Sheet has simply been a newsletter circulated via email and snail mail (going back further, its orginal name was the Heliothis Hotline). While the
- [Mirids in Mungbeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/mirids-in-mungbeans/) - Mirids can cause significant crop losses in mungbeans with yield reductions of up to 25-50% common where high mirid populations (eg 10/m2) are left uncontrolled. Mirids can reduce yields by 60 kg/ha for every mirid/m2 of crop. Mirids can be present in mungbeans at any stage from seedlings to podding. Budding, flowering and early-podding crops
- [Green vegetable bug (GVB) in late cotton](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/green-vegetable-bug-gvb-in-late-cotton/) - There have been several reports of GVB occurring in late cotton crops. This has led to some confusion in the industry as to whether GVB needs to be controlled at this late stage in cotton. Research done by DEEDI entomologists has shown that younger bolls are more susceptible to lint damage caused by GVB feeding.
- [Soybean Moth causing major damage in soybeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/soybean-moth-causing-major-damage-in-soybeans/) - Soybean moth Aproaerema simplexella is a very common pest of soybeans but is usually only present in very low numbers. This season high numbers of moths and caterpillars were found especially in the Wide Bay Burnett region with some fields sustaining extensive damage. Similar leaf miners attack many horticultural crops, but are species other than
- [Latest helicoverpa thresholds for mungbeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/latest-helicoverpa-thresholds-for-mungbeans/) - Revised thresholds for helicoverpa in flowering/podding mungbeans are based on a rate of damage of 35 kg/ha per larva per square metre in podding crops. The new thresholds are nearly double the old threshold of 1/m2, and make allowances for variations in control costs and crop value. For a typical scenario with pesticide control (including
- [Armyworm in wheat](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/armyworm-in-wheat/) - Over the past couple of weeks there have been numerous reports of armyworm in both barley and wheat. The appearance of armyworm in wheat raises a number of questions: 1) Do they behave the same way in wheat as in barley in relation to the type of damage they cause 2) what is their damage
- [White heads and stem borer in wheat](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/white-heads-and-stem-borer-in-wheat/) - Every year we receive reports of white heads in wheat, and while there are several possible causes of this symptom, one suspect implicated in the crime is a small stem boring larva called Ephysteris silignitis (Turner) belonging to the moth Family Gelechiidae. Rod Collins and Hugh Brier did some investigative work back in 1998. They reared
- [Bean podborer harassing mungbeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/bean-podborer-harassing-mungbeans/) - Damaging bean podborer (Maruca vitrata) populations of up to 100+ larvae/m2 have been observed in flowering and podding mungbeans in the South Burnett, Dawson Callide and Central Highlands. Although podborer is not an uncommon pest in these regions during wet summers, very high populations can inflict devastating damage with zero pod set observed in some
- [Collecting to assess silverleaf whitefly susceptibility to insecticides](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/collecting-silverleaf-whitefly-populations-for-insecticide-resistance-monitoring/) - As the cotton season draws to a close it is time to for the DAFF team working on Silverleaf whitefly (SLW) resistance monitoring to start making collections of whitefly from across the cotton-growing regions. Even if SLW numbers are below threshold, it is possible for the team to make collections of either nymphs (on leaves)
- [Cereal Aphids in wheat and barley Spring 2008](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/cereal-aphids-in-wheat-and-barley-spring-2008/) - Cereal aphid numbers have increased rapidly over the past 3 weeks as the temperatures have increased. Whilst low numbers of aphids have been present in many crops (wheat and barley) for some time, it was not until a couple of weeks ago that numbers reached levels of concern to agronomists and growers. Until the last
- [Update on Russian wheat aphid outbreak in South Australia.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/8-june-2016-update-on-russian-wheat-aphid-outbreak-in-south-australia/) - The National Management Group (NMG), comprising all Australian governments, Grain Producers Australia and Plant Health Australia, met on 8 June 2016 to discuss the incursion of Russian wheat aphid (Diuraphis noxia) in South Australia. Acting on advice from the Consultative Committee on Emergency Plant Pests (CCEPP), the NMG agreed that it is not technically feasible
- [Overview of the green peach aphid and beet western yellows virus outbreak in southern Australia (2014)](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/overview-of-the-green-peach-aphid-and-beet-western-yellows-virus-outbreak-in-southern-australia-2014/) - In the autumn and early winter of 2014, large areas of canola in South Australia, Victoria and southern NSW were heavily infested with green peach aphid (GPA), and many of the infested crops tested positive for beet western yellows virus (BWYV). GRDC TV has compiled a series of three videos that discuss what factors contributed
- [Drone's eye view of a canola compensation trial - Spring Ridge, NSW](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/drones-eye-vie-of-a-canola-compensation-trial-spring-ridge-nsw/) - Paul Grundy, Adam Quade and Richard Lloyd have established 8 trial sites in the Spring Ridge area to evaluate the impact of simulated aphid damage on flowering canola. Treatments simulate aphid infestations that limit flowering and pod set. Low, medium and high intensity damage applied in replicated trials. Assessments to made on time to maturity,
- [Loopers out in force in soybeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/loopers-out-in-force-in-soybeans/) - High soybean looper (Thysanoplusia orichalcea) populations (20-40/m2) have been reported in many regions in flowering and podding soybeans. While soybeans can tolerate 33% defoliation with no yield loss during the vegetative stages, their defoliation tolerance slips to 16% during podset/early podfill. Consequently, consider taking action if high looper populations are threatening your crop. Large soybean
- [Soybean Loopers defoliating sunflower crops](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/soybean-loopers-defoliating-sunflower-crops/) - Over the past couple of weeks there have been numerous reports of sunflower crops being defoliated by caterpillars. The caterpillar has been identified as the soybean looper, and is the same species reported on a couple of weeks ago defoliating soybeans. There are two colour forms of the soybean looper (see pictures below). Although
- [New Helicoverpa thresholds in vegetative soybeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/new-helicoverpa-thresholds-in-vegetative-soybeans/) - The new economic threshold for Helicoverpa in vegetative soybeans is 8 larvae per sqare metre and replaces the old 33% defoliation threshold. The new threshold is based on field trials conducted by John Rogers (formerly with DPI&F at Kingaroy). These field trials show that approximately 7.5 larvae per square metre can be tolerated with no
- [Managing Silverleaf Whitefly (SLW) – Wet conditions, late crops and immigrant  populations](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/managing-silverleaf-whitefly-slw-wet-conditions-late-crops-and-immigrant-populations/) - Management of whitefly this season will be challenging as a result of the high rainfall and flooding in November and again in February which has resulted in a wide spread of crop maturity both between and within each region. While some cotton crops will mature on time, others could be set back by as much as
- [Broad mites in cotton](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/broad-mites-in-cotton/) - Broad mites have shown up in cotton crops in Emerald and in the Gwydir this season. Whilst the mites themselves are extremely small and difficult to see, even with a handlens, being familiar with symptoms of broad mite infestation may assist with a diagnosis. What are broad mites? Typically broad mites are a tropical
- [Managing Helicoverpa larvae in chickpea crops close to dessication and harvest.](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/managing-helicoverpa-larvae-in-chickpea-crops-close-to-dessication-and-harvest/) - Over the last week or so we have received a number of enquiries about how best to manage new egg-lays, and populations of small larvae, in chickpea crops that are close to dessication and senescing. Of most concern are crops that still have reasonable areas of green crop in them, and what the likelihood of
- [Insurance spray for mirids in Bollgard II](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/insurance-spray-for-mirids-in-bollgard-ii/) - With the Festive Season almost here and an irrigation pending, is there value in applying a spray for mirids for peace of mind? This decision to apply an insurance spray needs to be carefully considered because it has the potential to cost much more in the long run. Where do mirids come from? Mirids overwinter

## Pages

- [Helicoverpa pheromone trap catches](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/helicoverpa-pheromone-traps/) - The QLD DPI coordinated Helicoverpa trapping program for 2025 began in early August. Results will be added to this page as they become available. The network would not be possible without the help of the many growers and consultants who donate their time to running them. Week ending 7/8/26 Helicoverpa moth trap numbers by station
- [2026 Insect ID and management workshop - Atherton](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/2026-insect-id-and-management-workshop-atherton/) - The Queensland Department of Primary Industries will hold a free insect identification and management workshop at Atherton on Wednesday 2 September starting at 9am (AEST). The workshop will focus on the major insect pests of pulse and cereal crops in northern Queensland, including a session featuring fall armyworm. Suitable for early career agronomists, farm managers
- [Workshops](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/workshops/) - Insect identification and management workshops Face-to-face full or half day workshops on insect identification and management over the last few years have focussed on a comprehensive hands-on component with live, preserved and photographic specimens of pests, beneficials and damage. Workshop presentations are tailored to include an emphasis on local crops and pests. Our next workshop
- [GraphTest](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/graphtest/)
- [Disease publications and factsheets](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/disease-publications-and-factsheets/) - Information on diseases relevant to the Northern Grains Region. On this page: Printable ID guides Industry factsheets Beatsheet posts Useful links Identification guides Common mungbean diseases A guide to the symptoms of commonly encountered diseases of mungbean A3 (January 2026 | 3MB PDF) Industry factsheets Fusarium wilt in mungbean (GRDC) Soybean Phomopsis/Diaporthe (2015 pdf by Soy
- [Entomology contacts](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/daf-entomology-contacts/) - DPI broadacre crops entomology team Dr Melina Miles Principal Entomologist & Team Leader (Grains Lead), Toowoomba melina.miles@dpi.qld.gov.au Ph: 4529 4169 Dr Paul Grundy Principal Research Scientist, Crop Protection and Farming Systems (Cotton Lead), Toowoomba paul.grundy@dpi.qld.gov.au Ph: 4529 4133 Dr Jamie Hopkinson Principal Entomologist (insecticide resistance and natural enemies), Toowoomba jamie.hopkinson@dpi.qld.gov.au Ph: 4529 4152 Dr Trevor
- [Whiteflies](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/whiteflies/) - Whiteflies are only a pest of broadleaf crops (e.g. cotton, sunflowers, pulses). Silverleaf whitefly (SLW; Bemisia tabaci) is considered a major pest of cotton due to resistance issues and the difficulty in processing lint contaminated with SLW honeydew. Greenhouse whitefly (Trialeurodes vaporariorum) is a minor pest in broadacre cropping, but common in horticulture. Description and
- [Pathology contacts](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/pathology-contacts/) - DPI Field crops Pathology team Dr Lisa Kelly Plant Pathologist Toowoomba lisa.kelly@dpi.qld.gov.au 0477 747 040 Dr Murray Sharman Senior Plant Pathologist Brisbane murray.sharman@dpi.qld.gov.au 0467 721 400 Dr Lisle Snyman Senior Plant Pathologist Warwick lisle.snyman@dpi.qld.gov.au 0428 324 932 Other pathology staff: Judy McIlroy and Peter Thompson (Warwick). Congratulations to Lisle Snyman, winner of the 2026 GRDC
- [Fall armyworm](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/fall-armyworm/) - Fall armyworm (FAW, Spodoptera frugiperda) is an exotic pest that was first detected on the Australian mainland in February 2020. Eradication has been determined to be unfeasible and it is now classified as an endemic pest. Reported to have a very wide potential host range, it has so far shown a distinct preference for grass
- [Parasitoids](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/biological-control/parasitoids/) - A parasite is an organism that lives on or in the body of another organism (the host) during some part of its lifecycle e.g. parasitic mites. However, the parasitic beneficial insects found in grain production systems are usually parasitoids, which (unlike a true parasite) ultimately sterilise, kill and/or consume the host. Because parasitoids spend most
- [Predators](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/biological-control/predators/) - Predators are usually generalists, feeding on a wide variety of prey, but some feed on only one or a few closely related species. Some or all life stages can be predatory, and they can consume many prey over the course of their development, with prey types usually determined by the predator’s size and mouthparts. Those
- [Entomology publications and factsheets](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/factsheets/) - Note: While the information contained in these publications was correct at time of printing, not all content may be current. Older publications at the end of this page are provided for reference and archive purposes. Jump to: Printable ID guides Factsheets and economic case studies See the Disease section for publications and factsheets on pathogens.
- [Biological control](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/biological-control/) - Pest populations can be reduced or controlled by non-pest organisms (‘natural enemies’) that inhabit the surrounding crop(s), or nearby habitat. An important component of an IPM system, biological control agents have several advantages: They are often already present and merely require appropriate management strategies (e.g. using selective insecticides where possible) to improve effectiveness. Many are
- [Conserving or augmenting beneficials](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/biological-control/conserving-or-augmenting-beneficials/) - Conserving or encouraging naturally-occurring populations, encouraging population increases, or supplementing the natural enemy complex by releasing mass-reared beneficials into the cropping system can help improve the impact of natural enemies. The degree of effectiveness of beneficials will vary between local situations, crops and regions. When determining whether beneficial releases have a place in your insect
- [Pathogens](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/biological-control/pathogens/) - Pathogens are disease-causing microorganisms that infect the pest, usually eventually killing it. A range of pathogens can infect pest species, but they are usually relatively specific. Some pathogens are available in commercial formations for application in the field, and because of their specificity, their use is compatible with IPM programs. Viral diseases Viral diseases are
- [Monitoring for pests and beneficials](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/monitoring-for-pests-and-beneficials/) - Monitoring for insects is an essential part of successful integrated pest management programs. Correct identification and accurate assessment of pest and beneficial presence in the field at various crop stages will ensure appropriate and timely management decisions. Good monitoring procedure involves: Knowledge of pest and beneficial species likely to be present. As well as visual identification of various
- [FAW pheromone traps](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/fall-armyworm/faw-pheromone-traps/) - Fall armyworm pheromone trap catches The QLD DPI coordinated Fall armyworm trapping program for 2025 began in mid-August. Results will be added to this page as they become available. The network would not be possible without the help of the many growers and consultants who donate their time to running them. We would also like
- [Mungbean diseases](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/disease-by-crop/mungbean-diseases/) - Cercospora leaf spot on mungbean Cercospora sp. Charcoal rot in mungbean Macrophomina phaseolina Fusarium wilt in mungbean Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium solani Gummy pod in mungbean Gluconobacter sp. Halo blight in mungbean Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. phaseolicola Phytoplasma in mungbean Powdery mildew in mungbean Podosphaera xanthii, Erysiphe vignae Sclerotinia stem rot in mungbean Sclerotinia sclerotiorum Tan spot
- [Rutherglen bug](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/rutherglen-bug/) - Rutherglen bug (RGB; Nysius vinitor) is a sporadic pest that can migrate into crops in very large numbers in favourable seasons. RGB is widespread, while a related species, grey cluster bug (Nysius clevelandensis) is only a pest in north-eastern Australia. Both species breed on a wide range of native plants and weeds, and populations build
- [Terms of use](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/about/terms-of-use/) - The views expressed in the posts and comments of the Beatsheet blog do not necessarily reflect the Department of Primary Industries (DPI) or the Queensland Government. Posts and comments should be considered the personal opinions of the author(s). No information on this blog is considered official unless confirmed on the DAF website. DAF uses the
- [Gummy pod](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/gummy-pod/) - Gummy pod in mungbean Gluconobacter sp.
- [Presentations and webinars](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/multimedia/presentations/) - This page provides video or slide show resources related to webinars and other presentations by DPI Entomology staff. FAW in dairy pastures DPI's Principal Entomologist Melina Miles features in this Dairy Australia podcast series about FAW (November 2024). Watch GRDC's FAW video (October 2024, featuring Melina Miles):  Fall armyworm update (with a focus on winter
- [Diseases](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/) - New content is added regularly to the disease section of the Beatsheet. Currently available sections to date include: Gallery of disease images by plant part affected Gallery of disease images by host crop Submitting samples for diagnosis: who to contact? Publications and further information See also Pathology contacts and the Useful links area for pathology
- [Images of diseases by plant part affected (and common name)](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/) - These image galleries have been arranged by the part of the host plant affected and by common name. Each page may include multiple causal agents or crops. You can also try searching for disease or pathogen names in the search box (at the top of the right-hand column on this page). Leaf diseases Ascochyta blight
- [Stem diseases](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/stem-diseases/) - Stem disease symptoms may include discolouration or blackening, spots or lesions, fungal growths and rots. Early stages of some infections can include vascular damage with no initial external symptoms. Anthracnose Ascochyta blight Bacterial stalk rot Charcoal rot Pod and stem blight Sclerotinia rots
- [Leaf diseases](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/leaf-diseases/) - Disease symptoms on leaves can include spots, pustules, yellowing, crinkling or deformed growth, necrotic areas, and mildewy areas. Ascochyta blight Cercospora - see leaf spots Downy mildew Halo blight Leaf spots Powdery mildew Rust Tan spot Target spot Viruses
- [Pod/panicle diseases](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/pod-panicle-diseases/) - Diseases of reproductive plant parts including pods and panicles can have significant impacts on grain yield and/or quality. Ascochyta blight Pod and stem blight Ergot Grain mould Gummy pod Phytoplasma Smut
- [Root and crown diseases](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/root-and-crown-diseases/) - Root and crown diseases often involve blights or rots. Initial symptoms may involve wilting or other signs of water stress. Charcoal rot Fusarium Phytophthora Sclerotinia rots Sclerotium rots and blights
- [Submitting samples for diagnostics](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/submitting-samples-for-diagnostics/) - Some diseases can be difficult to diagnose in the field, particularly where symptoms are unusual or inconclusive. Providing samples for diagnosis can help confirm pathogen presence or identify an incursion. To be useful, samples need to arrive in good condition. Below are some contacts for specific crops, and instructions on collecting and submitting samples to
- [Recent disease posts](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/recent-disease-posts/) - A list of posts that include information on crop diseases, disorders, and insect/plant/disease interactions (e.g. insect vectors or when insect damage allows entry pathways for pathogens).
- [Wheat diseases](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/disease-by-crop/wheat/) - Stripe rust of wheat Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici
- [Weed hosts](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/disease-by-crop/weed-hosts/) - Phytoplasma in weeds
- [Sunflower diseases](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/disease-by-crop/sunflower-diseases/) - Stem rot in sunflower Sclerotium rolfsii Tobacco streak virus (TSV) in sunflower
- [Soybean diseases](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/disease-by-crop/soybean-diseases/) - Anthracnose in soybean Colletotrichum spp. Cowpea mild mottle virus (CPMMV) in soybean Downy mildew in soybean Peronospora manshurica Phytoplasma in soybean Pod and stem blight of soybean Diaporthe/ Phomopsis spp. Powdery mildew in soybean Erysiphe diffusa Sclerotinia stem rot in soybean Sclerotinia sclerotiorum Sclerotium blight in soybean Sclerotium rolfsii Target spot in soybean Corynespora cassiicola
- [Sorghum diseases](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/disease-by-crop/sorghum-diseases/) - Bacterial stalk rot of sorghum Erwinia chrysanthemi Charcoal rot in sorghum Macrophomina phaseolina Sorghum ergot Claviceps africana Fusarium stalk rot in sorghum Fusarium thapsinum, Fusarium andiyazi Fusarium head blight in sorghum Fusarium spp. Grain mould in sorghum various spp. Rust in sorghum Puccinia purpurea Target leaf spot in sorghum Bipolaris sorghicola
- [Pigeonpea diseases](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/disease-by-crop/pigeonpea-diseases/) - Phytoplasma in pigeon pea
- [Viruses](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/viruses/) - Bean yellow mosaic virus Capsicum chlorosis virus Cowpea mild mottle virus Subterranean clover stunt virus Tobacco streak virus Tomato spotted wilt virus
- [Sclerotinia rots](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/sclerotinia-rots/) - Sclerotinia stem rot in mungbean Sclerotinia sclerotiorum Sclerotinia stem rot in soybean Sclerotinia sclerotiorum
- [Pod and stem blight](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/pod-and-stem-blight/) - Pod and stem blight of soybean Diaporthe/ Phomopsis spp.
- [Downy mildew](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/downy-mildew/) - Downy mildew in soybean Peronospora manshurica
- [Ergot](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/ergot/) - Sorghum ergot Claviceps africana
- [Blights](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/blights/) - Ascochyta blight Charcoal rot Halo blight Pod and stem blight Sclerotinia rots Sclerotium rots and blights
- [Bacterial stalk rot](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/bacterial-stalk-rot/) - Bacterial stalk rot of sorghum Erwinia chrysanthemi
- [Fusarium](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/fusarium/) - Fusarium wilt in mungbean Fusarium oxysporum, Fusarium solani Fusarium wilt in peanut Fusarium spp. Fusarium stalk rot in sorghum Fusarium thapsinum, Fusarium andiyazi Fusarium head blight in sorghum Fusarium spp.
- [Charcoal rot](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/charcoal-rot/) - Charcoal rot in mungbean Macrophomina phaseolina Charcoal rot in sorghum Macrophomina phaseolina
- [Leaf spots](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/leaf-spots/) - Cercospora leaf spot on mungbean Cercospora sp. Early leaf spot on peanut Cercospora arachidicola Late leaf spot on peanut Cercosporidium personatum Comparison of early and late leaf spot on peanuts
- [Rust](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/rust/) - Leaf rust in barley Puccinia hordei Rust in faba bean Uromyces viciae-fabae Rust in peanut Puccinia arachidis Rust in sorghum Puccinia purpurea Stripe rust of wheat Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici
- [Insect shorties](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/multimedia/insect-shorties/) - Short clips of insects doing everyday things. On this page: Beneficials (parasitoids) Beneficials (predators) Caterpillars Pests in plague proportions For more videos, visit the Beatsheet YouTube channel. Beneficials (parasitoids) Watch the moment a parasitoid wasp lays its egg into an aphid See a parasitoid emerging from the parasitised aphid 'mummy' Beneficials (predators) Hoverfly larva searches
- [Insect ID and management workshop 2025](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/insect-id-and-management-workshop-2025/) - The Queensland Department of Primary Industries will hold a free insect identification and management workshop at Goondiwindi on Wednesday 2 April starting at 9am (Queensland time). The workshop will focus on a 'back to basics', targeting the major insect pests of summer grains, summer pulses, winter cereals and winter pulses. Suitable for early career agronomists,
- [Resources](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/) - Check out our ID guides and other publications including the Good Bug? Bad Bug? identification guide, downloadable posters and a range of factsheets. Economic threshold ready reckoners Quick reference tables for key insect pests (July 2013; 180 kB PDF). 'Best bet’ IPM strategies have been developed to highlight the crop stages with increased risk of
- [Fall armyworm insecticide resistance surveillance](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/fall-armyworm-insecticide-resistance-surveillance/) - Since 2022 an insecticide resistance surveillance program for fall armyworm has been conducted annually by NSWDPIRD in collaboration with QDPI entomologists. The program is focused on resistance testing in fall armyworm populations collected from major cropping regions of northern, central and southern Queensland and is aimed at keeping growers and crop managers informed about potential
- [Aphids](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/aphids/) - A wide range of aphid species can affect field crops. Most are small (only a couple of millimetres long) with oval-shaped green, brown or black bodies. Often occurring in colonies, aphids suck on plant sap, causing loss of vigour, and in some cases yellowing, stunting or distortion of plant parts. Secreted honeydew (unused sap) can
- [Glossary](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/glossary/) - Sometimes scientific or industry-specific terminology is not commonly used elsewhere. To assist readers we’ve provided a glossary of pest and disease identification and management terms, including some of the more common broadacre industry acronyms. Abiotic. Physical rather than biological (not derived from living organisms). Action threshold. See threshold. Adjuvant. A substance added to a spray
- [Leafhoppers](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/leafhoppers/) - Leafhoppers (also known as jassids) are small sap-sucking insects that rapidly jump (‘hop’) or fly away when disturbed. Colours vary between species and can be anywhere from patterned brown to yellow to a bright green or bluish-green. Widespread and sporadic, leafhoppers are usually only minor/sporadic pests, although during outbreaks they can be present in very
- [About the Beatsheet](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/about/) - The Beat Sheet is a blog about insect pest management issues relevant to Australia’s northern grain region of Queensland and northern New South Wales
- [Faba bean diseases](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/disease-by-crop/faba-bean-diseases/) - BYMV in faba bean Phytoplasma in faba bean Rust in faba bean Uromyces viciae-fabae Subterranean clover stunt virus (SCSV) on faba bean Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV) in faba bean
- [Tomato spotted wilt virus](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/tomato-spotted-wilt-virus/) - TSWV in faba bean TSWV in peanut
- [Getting the most out of helicoverpa NPV](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/helicoverpa-management/getting-the-most-out-of-npv/) - NPV (nuclearpolyhedrosis virus; a viral biopesticide) is registered for use against helicoverpa on a range of field crops in Queensland, usually with higher rates in cotton and maize to compensate for difficult coverage due to the presence of sheltered feeding sites and/or a more complex plant structure. Note that infected larvae reduce their feeding but
- [Research](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/research/) - The DPI Field Crops Entomology team undertake a wide range of field and laboratory research and extension activities in both grains and cotton. Focal areas include: Determining damage potential of pest species Developing economic thresholds Evaluating efficacy of sampling and management methods Evaluating efficacy and IPM fit of insecticides Screening for insecticide resistance (current focus: silverleaf whitefly in
- [Economic thresholds - Helicoverpa in chickpeas](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/economic-threshold-calculators/economic-thresholds-helicoverpa-in-chickpeas/) - Helicoverpa is the only major insect pest of chickpea. Research has shown that the impact of one helicoverpa larvae (per square metre) completing development on the crop is a resultant loss of 2 grams of grain. This figure is used in estimating the potential yield loss and subsequently the economic threshold. The following calculator can
- [Chickpea diseases](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/disease-by-crop/chickpea-diseases/) - Ascochyta blight of chickpea Ascochyta rabeii For information on isolates of this pathogen, visit the chickpea ascochyta blight 'AscoDashboard' Phytophthora root rot in chickpea Phytophthora medicaginis
- [Ascochyta blight](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/ascochyta-blight/) - Ascochyta blight of chickpea Ascochyta rabeii For information on isolates of this pathogen, visit the chickpea ascochyta blight 'AscoDashboard'
- [Insecticide resistance](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/insecticide-resistance/) - Insecticide resistance is a reduction in the susceptibility of a pest population to a particular insecticide or insecticide group. The change is heritable, and natural selection can result in a rapid increase in the proportion of the population with resistance, leading to inadequate control of the pest at the insecticide’s registered rate. Field ‘spray failures’
- [Helicoverpa trapping data 2015-2020](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/monitoring-for-pests-and-beneficials/pheromone-traps/helicoverpa-trapping-data-2015-2020/) - 2020 trapping program Below is a table displaying the Helicoverpa moth numbers caught in pheromone traps from sites in Queensland and Northern New South Wales. Numbers in the table are standardised counts for seven trap nights, calculated as follows: (total no. moths caught/trap nights) x 7. Using the trap data to inform management decisions: Moth
- [Pheromone traps](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/monitoring-for-pests-and-beneficials/pheromone-traps/) - The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries runs pheromone trapping networks as an early warning system for flying pests. Current trapping networks focus on lepidopteran (moth) pests: Helicoverpa (H. armigera and H. punctigera) Fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) It is important to note that the primary function of pheromone traps is not to provide definitive counts, but
- [FAW management](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/fall-armyworm/faw-management/) - In partnership with industry, staff at the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries are continuing their research to understand the pest status of this insect within our production systems and develop a range of sustainable practices (cultural, biological and chemical) to enable effective control. On this page: Monitoring and thresholds Chemical use and resistance Natural enemies
- [Useful links](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/useful-links/) - Links to websites, fact sheets and other information of interest. Click on an image or link to open the relevant website. The Beatsheet's added features The Beatsheet has a YouTube channel. Visit us, watch our videos, and add your comments. A collection of threshold calculators is also available to help you calculate whether control measures
- [Thrips](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/thrips/) - Many of the thrips species in Australia feed on fungi, but several species can be a problem in agricultural crops. For many field crops, thrips are only a significant pest at the seedling stage, with both adults and nymphs sucking the contents of surface (epidermal) cells from the underside of cotyleons/leaves, and plant terminals. Affected
- [Mites](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/mites/) - Mites are tiny (usually 1.5mm or less) arachnids that can be difficult to see without a hand lens but can cause significant damage when populations are high. Most mites will attack a range of host species; some are specific to either grasses or broadleaf hosts. Adults and nymphs pierce and suck leaf cells, causing mottling
- [Mirids](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/mirids/) - Mirids are highly mobile and a key pest of mungbeans and cotton, although they can occur in many other crops. While there are quite a few mirid-like bugs, such as apple dimpling bug, brokenbacked bug and brown smudge bug, the primary pest species are green mirid (Creontiades dilutus), brown mirid (Creontiades pacificus) and crop mirid
- [Fall armyworm in forage](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/fall-armyworm/faw-management/fall-armyworm-in-forage/) - Forage crops are not traditionally regularly checked for insect pests, meaning fall armyworm presence in these crops can be problematic, particularly in periods of high pest pressure where considerable damage is possible. FAW damage to plants at the early vegetative stage can result in patchy establishment, and later infestations can reduce forage/silage quantity and quality.
- [Helicoverpa insecticide resistance surveillance](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/helicoverpa-insecticide-resistance-surveillance/) - The surveillance program and its benefits Each year the NSW Department of Primary Industries conducts a helicoverpa insecticide resistance surveillance program in the major summer cropping regions of NSW and Queensland, focused on detecting helicoverpa resistance to key helicoverpa-selective insecticides. The program provides growers and advisors with an early warning system for potential resistance outbreaks
- [Field crop pests (NSW) - 2020](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/multimedia/presentations/field-crop-pests-nsw-2020/) - Online update with a northern NSW focus. Presenters included Zorica Duric, Joop van Leur and Bill Gordon (NSW DPI) and Hugh Brier and Melina Miles (DAF Qld). The set of individual recordings is available at the NSW DPI YouTube channel.
- [Northern Grains Region Seasonal Update 2020 (QLD)](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/multimedia/presentations/northern-grains-region-seasonal-update-qld/) - Online update presented by Hugh Brier, Lisa Kelly and Melina Miles (DAF) and Zorica Duric (NSW DPI) on summer/autumn pest and diseases encountered and potential issues for winter (27 May 2020). (54 mins) Download the Q&A summary (720kB pdf).
- [FAW Q&A session (May 2020)](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/multimedia/presentations/faw-qa-session-may-2020/) - Online presentation and Q&A session organised by CQ Grower Solutions on 6 May 2020, featuring Melina Miles (DAF) and Brent Wilson (Nutrien Ag Solutions, Home Hill). Due to technical issues the initial audio of Brent's presentation has been re-recorded by Melina. (45 mins) Download the Q&A summary (775kB pdf).
- [Fall armyworm in sorghum](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/fall-armyworm/faw-management/fall-armyworm-in-sorghum/) - Sorghum is a host of fall armyworm (FAW), but internationally it is not as severely impacted as maize. Like maize, sorghum is at greatest risk of crop loss at crop establishment (up to 4-5 leaves) as a result of persistent defoliation and seedling death. Crops destined for grain, as well as forage or silage are
- [FAW damage](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/fall-armyworm/faw-damage/) - The field crops that appear to be most attractive to FAW so far appear to be maize and sorghum (including forage sorghum), although it has also been reported in millet, peanuts, mungbeans, soybeans and Rhodes grass. In horticulture FAW is a major pest of sweetcorn, and has been detected in capsicum, ginger, heliconias, strawberries, womboks,
- [Insect workshops for 2023](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/insect-workshops-for-2023/) - A workshop on insect identification and management with a BONUS pathology session will be held at Emerald on Wednesday 6 December at the DAF Conference room (Hospital Rd). Previous workshops were held in Gunnedah (2 November) and Dalby (8 November). The Emerald workshop's previously promoted insect presentation and hands-on session in the morning (8:20-12:30) will
- [Decision making for insect management in grain crops (2013-2015)](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/workshops/decision-making-for-insect-management-in-grain-crops-2013-2015/) - Decision Making for Insect Management in Grain Crops workshops were conducted at multiple locations within the Northern and Southern regions during 2013-2015. Background Insecticide resistance, coupled with the regulatory withdrawal of a number of older insecticides, is creating a potential crisis for insect management in grain crops. This is prompting advisers to re-think the sustainability
- [FAW identification](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/fall-armyworm/faw-identification/) - Originating in the tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, FAW is now found in Africa, the Indian subcontinent, China and South East Asia. This migratory pest has the capacity to spread widely in some seasons but is likely to only survive year-round in warmer climates. FAW has been reported from a large number of
- [Helicoverpa - identification and behaviour](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/helicoverpa-identification-and-behaviour/) - Two species of helicoverpa (previously known as heliothis) are serious pests of field crops (particularly pulses, cotton, some cereals and oilseeds) in the northern grains region of Australia. Helicoverpa armigera (cotton bollworm or corn earworm) is generally regarded as the more serious pest because of its greater capacity to develop resistance to insecticides, broader host
- [Soil and establishment pests](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/soil-and-establishment-pests/) - A number of species of soil-dwelling arthropods can seriously reduce plant establishment and populations, and subsequent yield potential. Common pests include cockroaches, crickets, earwigs, scarabs, symphyla and wireworms. Often more than one species is present. See the 'Best Bet' IPM strategies for establishment pests in northern and southern growing regions, developed as part of the
- [Soil and establishment pests](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/insect-identification/soil-and-establishment-pests/) - Black earwigs Nala lividipes Black field crickets Teleogryllus spp. Scarabs (several species) Symphyla Wingless cockroach Wireworms
- [Images of diseases by crop](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/disease-by-crop/) - These image galleries have been arranged by host crop. Barley Chickpea Faba bean Mungbean Peanut Pigeonpea Sorghum Soybean Sunflower Wheat Weed hosts
- [Barley diseases](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/disease-by-crop/barley-diseases/) - Loose smut in barley Ustilago nuda Powdery mildew in barley Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei Leaf rust on barley Puccinia hordei
- [Sorghum midge](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/sorghum-midge/) - Sorghum midge (Stenodiplosis sorghicola) is a small (1.5-2mm) orange mosquito-like fly that lays its eggs into the developing flower spikelets. Larvae feed on the developing ovary, which prevents seeds developing normally. Hosts include grain sorghum, forage sorghum, Johnson grass, and Columbus grass, but does not attack Australian native Sorghum spp. High populations on non-resistant varieties
- [Economic thresholds - Mirids in mungbeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/economic-threshold-calculators/economic-thresholds-mirids-in-mungbeans/) - This threshold assumes all green, brown and crop mirids and broken backed bugs produce equivalent damage, and that third instar (wing buds are present) nymphs onwards are as damaging as adults. See the Beatsheet's mirid image gallery for pictures of different species and life stages. Enter your estimated: control cost per hectare (include both product
- [Insect workshops 2022](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/workshop-registrations-2022/) - Unfortunately the workshop planned for Chinchilla on 30th November did not receive sufficient registrations to proceed. These workshops have highlighted pests that can occur in wetter seasons, with an emphasis on hands-on identification. Whether you are new to the industry, or wanting to brush up on pests you may not have seen for a while, these
- [Darabug insect development model](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/darabug/) - The DARABUG model provides a convenient and readily available means of predicting development times using different insect models. Gridded climatic data of daily temperatures is used in these models to generate estimates of the dates of occurrence for each stage throughout the whole life-cycle of an insect. Simply enter the species, date, observed life stage,
- [Podsucking bugs](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/podsucking-bugs/) - Podsucking bugs (PSB) are considered major pests of all northern region pulse crops except peanuts and chickpea. They reduce crop yield and quality by feeding on developing seeds with piercing-sucking mouthparts. Species include: Green vegetable bug (GVB) Nezara viridula Redbanded shield bug (RBSB) Piezodorus oceanicus Brown shield/stink bug (BSB) Dictyotus caenosus Green shield/stink bug (GSB)
- [Economic thresholds - Podsucking bugs in mungbean and soybean](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/economic-threshold-calculators/economic-thresholds-for-podsucking-bugs/) - Counting pod sucking bug counts Green vegetable bugs (GVB) are considered the most important pod sucking bug pest in pulse crops due to their abundance, wide-spread distribution and rate of reproduction, however other species can still cause severe damage when present in large numbers. A conversion to green vegetable bug equivalents (GVBEQ) allows an assessment of
- [Economic Threshold Calculators](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/economic-threshold-calculators/) - Most of the threshold calculators below are yield-based. They take into account your crop’s likely value (in $/t) along with your estimated cost of control (in $/ha), as spraying costs can vary widely depending on operator (in-house or contractor), product choice, and application method. The podsucking bugs thresholds prioritise quality. Helicoverpa in chickpeas Helicoverpa in sorghum
- [Economic thresholds - Helicoverpa in podding pulses](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/economic-threshold-calculators/economic-thresholds-helicoverpa-in-pulses/) - Enter an estimate of: control cost per hectare (include both product and application) crop value per tonne and adjust the row spacing if required to receive a break even threshold (where the benefit in saved yield is equal to the cost of the control measure). For convenience, this is presented in both larvae per metre
- [Russian wheat aphid](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/russian-wheat-aphid/) - Although not yet reported north of Tamworth (as at August 2022), the further spread of Russian wheat aphid (RWA) (Diuraphis noxia) in the Northern Grains Region is considered inevitable. Beatsheet posts on RWA include: RWA as a potential pest in the Northern Grains region A short guide to checking and identifying RWA Spies needed! For
- [Fall armyworm in maize](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/fall-armyworm/faw-management/fall-armyworm-in-maize/) - Maize (corn, popcorn) is a preferred host of fall armyworm (FAW) with a high risk of significant crop losses. FAW will potentially impact both grain and forage yields and quality. Eggs are laid on the underside of lower leaves (less specific when FAW populations are large) and newly-hatched larvae feed on the leaves, removing green
- [FAW](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/insect-identification/faw/) - Life stages Fall armyworm eggs are laid in clusters and covered in scales, giving a 'furry' appearance. Neonates have translucent bodies with dark heads. Young larvae (up to about 3rd instars) can look very similar to young helicoverpa and other armyworm species. Larger larvae are more easily distinguished (see FAW ID page). Pupae look similar
- [Tobacco streak virus](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/tobacco-streak-virus/) - TSV in mungbean TSV in peanut TSV in sunflower
- [Target spot](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/target-spot/) - Target spot in soybean Corynespora cassiicola Target leaf spot in sorghum Bipolaris sorghicola
- [Tan spot](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/tan-spot/) - Tan spot in mungbean Curtobacterium flaccumfaciens pv. Flaccumfaciens
- [Subterranean clover stunt virus](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/subterranean-clover-stunt-virus/) - SCSV on faba bean
- [Smut](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/smut/) - Loose smut in barley Ustilago nuda
- [Sclerotium blights and rots](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/sclerotium-blights-and-rots/) - Stem rot in peanut Sclerotium rolfsii Sclerotium blight in soybean Sclerotium rolfsii Stem rot in sunflower Sclerotium rolfsii
- [Powdery mildew](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/powdery-mildew/) - Powdery mildew in barley Blumeria graminis f. sp. hordei Powdery mildew in mungbean Podosphaera xanthii, Erysiphe vignae Powdery mildew in soybean Erysiphe diffusa
- [Phytoplasma](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/phytoplasma/) - Ca. Phytoplasma aurantifolia Jump to: faba bean | mungbean | peanut | pigeon pea | soybean | weeds Phytoplasma in faba bean Phytoplasma in mungbean Phytoplasma in peanut Phytoplasma in pigeon pea Phytoplasma in soybean Phytoplasma in weeds
- [Phytophthora](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/phytophthora/) - Phytophthora root rot in chickpea Phytophthora medicaginis
- [Halo blight](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/halo-blight/) - Halo blight in mungbean Pseudomonas savastanoi pv. Phaseolicola
- [Grain mould](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/grain-mould/) - Grain mould in sorghum various spp.
- [Cowpea mild mottle virus](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/cowpea-mild-mottle-virus/) - CPMMV in peanut CPMMV in soybean
- [Capsicum chlorosis virus](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/capsicum-chlorosis-virus/) - CaCV on peanuts
- [Bean yellow mosaic virus](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/bean-yellow-mosaic-virus/) - BYMV in faba bean
- [Anthracnose](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/image-by-disease/anthracnose/) - Anthracnose in soybean Colletotrichum spp.
- [Peanut diseases](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/disease/disease-by-crop/peanut-diseases/) - Capsicum chlorosis virus (CaCV) on peanuts Early leaf spot on peanut Cercospora arachidicola Late leaf spot on peanut Cercosporidium personatum Comparison of early and late leaf spot on peanuts Cowpea mild mottle virus (CPMMV) in peanut Fusarium wilt in peanut Fusarium spp. Phytoplasma in peanut Rust in peanut Puccinia arachidis Stem rot in peanut Sclerotium
- [Map of FAW trap catches](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/fall-armyworm/faw-pheromone-traps/map-of-faw-trap-catches/)
- [Helicoverpa management](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/helicoverpa-management/) - Presently there are few control options other than the use of chemical insecticides (or biopesticides), for above-threshold populations of larvae. Spraying should be carried out promptly once the threshold has been exceeded (see the Beatsheet's threshold calculators for helicoverpa in sorghum, chickpeas and pulses). Controlling helicoverpa effectively with insecticides depends on knowing which species are
- [Pest interactions](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/pest-interactions/) - A list of posts that include information on the interactions between insects and pathogens (e.g. insect vectors or when insect damage allows entry pathways for pathogens).
- [Insect identification](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/insect-identification/) - Small and often highly mobile, insects and other arthropods can be difficult to identify in the field. Correct identification is essential when planning a management strategy, as not everything that is found when sampling a crop is causing economic damage. Mistaking beneficial insects for pests can result in both an unnecessary application of pesticide (wasting time and money), and
- [Insect workshop at Goondiwindi](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/insect-workshop-at-goondiwindi/) - DAF and NSW DPI, with support from GRDC, will be running an insect identification and management workshop in Goondiwindi on Wednesday 21 July 2021. The workshop will include: hands-on sessions and group discussion efficient and effective sampling an overview of insect development and identification tips thresholds and how to use them a look at specific
- [Cluster caterpillar](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/insect-identification/cluster-caterpillar/) - Cluster caterpillar (Spodoptera litura) is an armyworm species with a wide host range, including pulses and cotton. It is most common in warmer climates. Life stages Colour and pattern variants Traditionally, larger cluster caterpillar larvae have been identified by their distinctive rows of dark half-moons and spots along the body. A recent focus on caterpillar
- [Invertebrate pest management in maize (and planning for FAW)](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/multimedia/presentations/invertebrate-pest-management-in-maize/) - This presentation looks at invertebrate pest management in maize. Slides adapted from a presentation by Melina Miles (DAF) with a southern/central NSW focus. Also available to download as a 5MB PDF.
- [Key pests](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/) - While the Beatsheet posts give seasonally-relevant information, these pages aim to provide more general identification and management summaries of some of the key pests of broadacre crops. Chose pests and management information from the drop-down menus.
- [Fall armyworm (August 2020)](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/multimedia/presentations/fall-armyworm-august-2020/) - Fall armyworm (FAW) is a recent incursion to Australia and may have the potential to cause significant yield losses, particularly in maize and sweetcorn, if not well managed. Slides adapted from a presentation by Melina Miles (DAF) to horticultural agronomists. Also available to download as a 4MB PDF. See more information on this pest at
- [Pheromone trapping networks](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/pheromone-trapping-networks/) - The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries runs pheromone trapping networks as an early warning system for flying pests. Current trapping networks focus on lepidopteran (moth) pests: Helicoverpa (H. armigera and H. punctigera) Fall armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda) It is important to note that the primary function of pheromone traps is not to provide definitive counts, but
- [Multimedia](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/multimedia/) - The Beatsheet offers a range of videos on monitoring and other entomological topics. Some examples are featured below. For more videos, visit the Beat­sheet YouTube chan­nel. Recordings of presentations and webinars can be found on our presentations page. Russian wheat aphid symptoms Using a pheromone trap for Helicoverpa monitoring Using a beat sheet to check for
- [Feedback - Online update on 27 May](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/feedback-online-update-on-27-may/)
- [Commonly confused](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/insect-identification/commonly-confused/) - Some of the more commonly confused insect species are included below. Striped caterpillars Mealybug and its predators Moths and larvae in soybeans
- [Considerations when choosing chemical control options](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/considerations-when-choosing-chemical-control-options/) - When confronted with an above-threshold pest population, chemical intervention is often needed. However, unnecessary spraying or choosing the wrong pesticides can flare secondary pests, hasten the development of pesticide resistance, contaminate the harvested product, increase operating costs and reduce profitability. Note: Only use products that are registered for the pest and crop, or have a
- [Predatory bugs](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/insect-identification/predatory-bugs/) - Assassin bugs Predatory shield bugs Other predatory bugs Photos by Joe Wessels, David Ironside, and Paul Grundy
- [Microplitis and ascovirus impact on helicoverpa](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/microplitis-and-ascovirus-impact-on-helicoverpa/) - Microplitis demolitor is a small native parasitoid wasp, one of the key beneficial insect species that attack Helicoverpa sp. caterpillars in Australia. Female wasps can parasitise approximately 70 helicoverpa caterpillars in their lifetime, and also play an important role in spreading ascovirus. Ascovirus lethally infects a range of caterpillar species. The ascovirus that infects helicoverpa
- [Aphids](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/insect-identification/aphids/) - Cereal aphids Broadleaf aphids
- [Solenopsis mealybug](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/key-pests/solenopsis-mealybug/) - First identified in Australia from cotton crops in the Emerald and Burdekin regions during the 2009-10 season, the solenopsis mealybug (Phenacoccus solenopsis) is widely distributed throughout eastern Australia at low densities, and outbreaks in cotton and horticulture occur when local conditions are suitable. Possible triggers may include host availability (allowing population build up), climatic conditions, use of
- [Helicoverpa](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/insect-identification/helicoverpa/) - Life stages Parasitoid and disease symptoms
- [Ladybirds](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/insect-identification/ladybirds/) - Adult ladybird beetles are one of the most easily recognisable and iconic natural enemies in cropping systems. However, the group covers quire a few different species, of varying size, colour and patterns. Recognised as voracious feeders of small pests such as aphids, prey preferences and overall consumption rates of individual species are largely unknown. Images of the final
- [Economic thresholds - Sorghum midge](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/economic-threshold-calculators/economic-thresholds-sorghum-midge/) - The yield loss estimates in the calculator assume that spraying results in a 100% kill and that there is no midge damage prior to chemical application. It also assumes that you will receive the same average midge pressures over 4-5 days. In reality research has shown that one well timed insecticide for midge (put on
- [Economic thresholds - Helicoverpa in sorghum](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/economic-threshold-calculators/economic-thresholds-helicoverpa-in-sorghum/) - The economic threshold (that is, the number of larvae per head where the cost of control is equal to the value of the grain saved) can be calculated below. The threshold is based on each larva consuming 2.4 grams of sorghum during its lifetime.
- [Predatory beetles](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/insect-identification/predatory-beetles/) - Ladybird beetles Other predatory beetles
- [RWA in the northern grains region (July 2017)](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/multimedia/rwa-in-the-northern-grains-region-july-2017/) - Russian wheat aphid (RWA) is considered a high priority pest by the grains industry because of its potential to cause significant yield losses, particularly in wheat and barley, if not well managed. It is inevitable that RWA will establish in the northern grains region, but we don’t know when we will start to see it
- [Russian wheat aphid presentation - March 2017](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/factsheets/russian-wheat-aphid-presentation/) - Adapted from a GRDC Update presentation, March 2017
- [Eggs](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/insect-identification/eggs/) - Examples of pest and beneficial (including parasitised) eggs. Please note: these photos are not to scale. Pests: Single or small groups Pests: Rafts Beneficials: Rafts Beneficials: Parasitism
- [Podsucking bug species](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/insect-identification/podsucking-bugs/) - Quite a few species are grouped under the generic term 'podsucking bugs', but not all have the same impact on the crop. Photographs of the more common species at various stages of development are provided below to assist with identification. Green vegetable bug Nezara viridula Redbanded shield bug Piezodorus oceanicus Green stink bug Plautia affinis
- [Mirids](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/resources/insect-identification/mirids/) - Green mirid Brown mirid Crop mirid Broken backed bug (mirid-like)

## Events

- [Insect ID and management workshop - Atherton](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/insect-id-and-management-workshop-atherton/) - A free insect identification and management workshop is planned for Atherton on Wednesday 2 September 2026. The workshop will focus on pests and beneficials found in northern Queensland grain crops (including a session on fall armyworm), featuring presentations from DPI entomologists and an extensive hands-on component. Content will be customised to incorporate the specific interests
- [Disease identification and management workshop – Narrabri](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/disease-identification-and-management-workshop-narrabri/) - This 2 day workshop covers: Foliar diseases Identification of wheat, barley, canola and winter pulse foliar diseases Strategies for managing foliar diseases in wheat, barley, winter pulses and canola - Genetics and disease risk - Key timings - Which fungicide(s)? - Pre-emptive management to mitigate risk Soil borne diseases & nematodes Crop impact and inoculum
- [Disease identification and management workshop – Dalby](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/disease-identification-and-management-workshop-dalby/) - This 2 day workshop covers: Foliar diseases Identification of wheat, barley, canola and winter pulse foliar diseases Strategies for managing foliar diseases in wheat, barley, winter pulses and canola - Genetics and disease risk - Key timings - Which fungicide(s)? - Pre-emptive management to mitigate risk Soil borne diseases & nematodes Crop impact and inoculum
- [Profitable grain storage solutions – Warren/Collie](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/profitable-grain-storage-solutions-warren-collie/) - Free 3 hour workshop covering grain storage, biosecurity and drought adaptation topics. For more information, visit the GRDC website.
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – Bell](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-bell/) - Join researchers, agronomists, and innovative growers at the Bell GRDC Grains Research Update to explore leading-edge developments in grains research to enhance farm profitability. Pest management-related presentations in the program: The impact of MRLs on trade - market access is more than just following label directions. Gerard McMullen (McMullen Consulting) Storage update. Alex Conway (Control
- [CCA Cropping Solutions Seminar 2026](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/cca-cropping-solutions-seminar-2026/) - Crop Consultants Australia's annual Cropping Solutions Seminar brings together our members with research and industry partners for two days of networking and presentations on topics relevant to broadacre agriculture. Anyone working or studying in areas related to broadacre agronomy is welcome to attend. The event opens on Monday the 15th June with a welcome function
- [Disease identification and management workshop – Toowoomba](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/disease-identification-and-management-workshop-toowoomba/) - Agronomists and grain growers are invited to participate in a 2-day GRDC supported workshop on identifying and managing soil and foliar diseases of cereal and other field crops. The workshop covers: Foliar diseases Identification of wheat, barley, canola and winter pulse foliar diseases Strategies for managing foliar diseases in wheat, barley, winter pulses and canola -
- [Disease identification and management workshop – Goondiwindi](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/disease-identification-and-management-workshop-goondiwindi/) - Agronomists and grain growers are invited to participate in a 2-day GRDC supported workshop on identifying and managing soil and foliar diseases of cereal and other field crops. The workshop covers: Foliar diseases Identification of wheat, barley, canola and winter pulse foliar diseases Strategies for managing foliar diseases in wheat, barley, winter pulses and canola -
- [Disease identification and management workshop – Dubbo](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/disease-identification-and-management-workshop-dubbo/) - Agronomists and grain growers are invited to participate in a 2-day GRDC supported workshop on identifying and managing soil and foliar diseases of cereal and other field crops. The workshop covers: Foliar diseases Identification of wheat, barley, canola and winter pulse foliar diseases Strategies for managing foliar diseases in wheat, barley, winter pulses and canola -
- [GRDC Spray Day – Monto](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-spray-day-monto/) - Craig Day (Spray Safe & Save) will host this workshop on best practice spray application, including nozzle selection, spray quality classifications, tank mix influences on spray quality, spray planning, water quality, weather, decontamination, hormesis and local issues of concern. For more information and to register, visit the GRDC website.
- [GRDC Spray Day – Springsure](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-spray-day-springsure/) - Craig Day (Spray Safe & Save) will host this workshop on best practice spray application, including nozzle selection, spray quality classifications, tank mix influences on spray quality, spray planning, water quality, weather, decontamination, hormesis and local issues of concern. For more information and to register, visit the GRDC website.
- [GRDC Spray Day – Clermont](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-spray-day-clermont/) - Craig Day (Spray Safe & Save) will host this workshop on best practice spray application, including nozzle selection, spray quality classifications, tank mix influences on spray quality, spray planning, water quality, weather, decontamination, hormesis and local issues of concern. For more information and to register, visit the GRDC website.
- [Vertebrate pesticide induction training – Warialda](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/vertebrate-pesticide-induction-training-warialda/) - Free vertebrate pesticide induction training (VPIT) for landholders (approx. 3 hours). The course covers: legislation and legal obligations baiting techniques toxicity storage transport how to reduce non-target exposure. On successful completion you will be certified to use 1080, Pindone, PAPP and RHDV baits for 5 years on their land. There is also optional canid pest
- [GRDC Grains Research Update, online – Beneficial insects and resistance: making smarter spray decisions](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-online-beneficial-insects-and-resistance-making-smarter-spray-decisions/) - Lilia Jenkins, Cesar Australia will unpack the role beneficial insects play in Australian grain systems and how smart insecticide decisions can help protect them while maintaining effective pest control. Lilia will share practical strategies for integrating beneficials into pest management programs, reducing unnecessary sprays, and using insecticides more strategically to slow resistance and support long‑term
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – Narrabri](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-narrabri/) - The Narrabri update includes a session on Ascochyta in chickpeas – exciting new genetics that’s close and a look over the horizon by Kristy Hobson (NSW DPIRD). For more information and to register, visit the GRDC website.
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – Goondiwindi](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/9727/) - The Goondiwindi update has a presentation by Steven Simpfendorfer (NSW DPIRD) on' Regional fungicide resistance and disease management update' on Day 1. For more information or to register, visit the GRDC website.
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – Dubbo](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-dubbo-2/) - The Dubbo update has a presentation by Steven Simpfendorfer (NSW DPIRD) on Regional fungicide resistance and disease management update on day 2. For more information and to register, visit the GRDC website.
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – West Wyalong](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-west-wyalong/) - Disease presentations at this update include: Diverse farms! Challenging and improving farming systems at the whole farm scale – impacts of crop sequences on weed management, N legacy and root diseases such as crown-rot. Greg Condon (Grassroots Agronomy) Soil pathogens in central west NSW – what’s out there that we need to be working on? Predicta®B test
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – Wagga Wagga](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-wagga-wagga-2/) - This GRDC update on 18-19 February 2026 includes a disease session: Disease management Cereal disease update and management considerations for 2026. Brad Baxter (NSW DPIRD) Management impacts in SNSW from fungicide resistance to blackleg and sclerotinia. Angela van de Wouw (Uni of Melb) With new decision support tools, can we make better disease management decisions
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – Rolleston](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-rolleston/) - 26 November 2025 8:30 am to 3:00 pm at Rolleston Memorial Hall Topics include talks on fall armyworm and grain storage. For more information and to register, visit the GRDC website.
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – Clermont](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-clermont/) - 25 November 2025 8:30 am to 3:00 pm at Clermont Civic Centre Topics include talks on fall armyworm and grain storage. For more information and to register, visit the GRDC website.
- [Soilborne Diseases Initiative Field Walk – Toowoomba](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/9601/) - This free field day at Wellcamp Research Facility will cover: Crown rot resistance and tolerance trials Using crop sequences to manage root-lesion nematodes Inspect National Variety Trials: crown rot, root-lesion nematodes and leaf rust New sources of resistance: cereals for crown rot; wheat and chickpea for root-lesion nematodes An update on mungbean root-lesion nematode yield
- [GRDC Spray Safe & Save Spray Day – Millmerran](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-spray-safe-save-spray-day-millmerran/) - Best practice spray application information for growers, spray operators, contractors and advisors, delivered by Craig Day, Spray Safe & Save. Various specialists will address issues such as spray quality; fence line spraying – getting it right; and new sprayer technology. New videos created for this project, for example, Hormesis – the effects of sub-lethal dosing,
- [GRDC Spray Safe & Save Spray Day – Chinchilla](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-spray-safe-save-spray-day-chinchilla/) - Best practice spray application information for growers, spray operators, contractors and advisors, delivered by Craig Day, Spray Safe & Save. Various specialists will address issues such as spray quality; fence line spraying – getting it right; and new sprayer technology. New videos created for this project, for example, Hormesis – the effects of sub-lethal dosing,
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – Spring Ridge](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-spring-ridge/) - Topics covered in this Update include Products under APVMA regulatory review - what, when and why and implications for industry stewardship. Gordon Cumming (GRDC) 08 August 2025 9:00-2:40 For more information, visit the GRDC website.
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – Dalby](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-dalby/) - Topics covered at this Update include: Products under APVMA regulatory review - what, when and why and implications for industry stewardship. Gordon Cumming (GRDC) Fall armyworm update - what's new and strategies for summer 2025/26. Joe Eyre (UQ) 05 August 2025 9:00-3:10 For more information, visit the GRDC website.
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – Wellington](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-wellington/) - Topics covered at this update include a talk on 'Disease management – regional issues with fungicide resistance, managing septoria, stripe rust blotches and powdery mildew in cereals' by Brad Baxter (NSW DPIRD) 31 July 2025 9:00-2:30 For more information, visit the GRDC website.
- [Australian Summer Grains Conference 2025](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/australian-summer-grains-conference-2025/) - The conference focuses on a range of topics (including pest and disease management) for sorghum, maize, sunflower, soybean and mungbean under the 2025 banner of “Transforming Challenges into Sustainable Farm Profitability”. Find out more.
- [Australian Grain Storage & Protection Conference 2025](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/australian-grain-storage-protection-conference-2025/) - This conference brings together the grains industry to explore key topics, including: market requirements Insect infestation and entomology pesticide residue requirements grain protectants and fumigants application technology physical control methods. For more information, visit the GRDC website.
- [Insect identification and management workshop _ Goondiwindi](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/insect-identification-and-management/) - Our next insect identification and management workshop is on Wednesday 2 April 2025 in Goondiwindi. Past workshops have been well attended, with excellent feedback about the extensive 'hands-on' component of pests, beneficials and crop damage. To register, or suggest a venue for a future workshop, visit our Insect workshop – Goondiwindi 2025 page.
- [Managing foliar diseases and fungicide resistance workshop - Moree](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/afren-managing-foliar-diseases-and-fungicide-resistance-workshop-moree/) - Agronomists and grain growers are invited to discuss the cutting edge of disease and fungicide resistance management in a 2-day GRDC-supported workshop, brought to you by the Australian Fungicide Resistance Extension Network (AFREN). 27-28 March 2025. For more information and to register, visit the GRDC website.
- [GRDC Online Update - Strategic use of zinc phosphide for successful mouse control](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-online-update-strategic-use-of-zinc-phosphide-for-successful-mouse-control/) - Steve Henry, CSIRO and Ben White, Research Engineer Explore strategies for successful mouse control and factors that restrict efficacy of zinc phosphide. Steve and Ben will highlight recent research on best placement of zinc phosphide and the impact of leftover grain in paddock post-harvest. 12 March 2025 starting@1:00 pm (Australian Eastern Daylight Time) For more
- [Managing foliar diseases and fungicide resistance workshop - Toowoomba](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/afren-managing-foliar-diseases-and-fungicide-resistance-workshop-toowoomba/) - Agronomists and grain growers are invited to discuss the cutting edge of disease and fungicide resistance management in a 2-day GRDC-supported workshop, brought to you by the Australian Fungicide Resistance Extension Network (AFREN). 25-26 March 2025. For more information, visit the GRDC website.
- [GRDC Research Update – Pallamallawa](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-research-update-pallamallawa/) - Discuss the latest farm-ready information to improve profit, with researchers, agronomists and leading growers at the Pallamallawa GRDC Grains Research Update. Thursday 6 March 2025 from 9-3 (Daylight Savings Time). For more information and to register, visit the GRDC website.
- [GRDC Research Update – Goondiwindi](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-research-update-goondiwindi/) - Goondi’s 2-day GRDC Grains Research Update is not one to miss for the Southern Qld & Northern NSW grains industry. Come along to hear and discuss the latest grains research topics, share ideas and network with colleagues and friends. Tuesday and Wednesday 4-5 March, 2025. For more information and to register, visit the GRDC website.
- [GRDC Research Update – Dubbo](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-research-update-dubbo/) - Hear and discuss the latest grains research topics, share ideas and network with colleagues and friends at the 2-day Update. Thursday and Friday 27-28 February 2025. Thursday includes a session on disease and Friday includes a presentation on turnip yellows virus and green peach aphid in canola. For more information and to register, visit the
- [GRDC Research Update – Nyngan](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-research-update-nyngan/) - The latest farm-ready information to improve profit, with researchers, agronomists and leading growers at the Nyngan GRDC Grains Research Update. Wednesday 26 February 2025 from 9-3 (Daylight Savings Time) For more information and to register, visit the GRDC website.
- [GRDC Online Update: Strategies for Predicta B testing](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-online-update-strategies-for-predicta-b-testing/) - Understanding potential soil and stubble-borne diseases ahead of next season is essential to good planning. Blake Gontar (SARDI) provides key strategies for Predict B testing and how to best leverage the results when planning for the season ahead. While this technique is more commonly used in southern regions, it is suitable for use with Pratylenchus
- [GRDC Grains Research Update, online – Pre-harvest grain storage health check](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-online-pre-harvest-grain-storage-health-check/) - With harvest looming this livestream will address timely factors that will impact your grain storage outcomes. Preventing issues is always better than dealing with them and the loss they cause. Topics will include high impact hygiene, this year’s protectant choices and application, retrofitting and utilising aeration cooling. Join in the conversation with grain storage specialist
- [Crop Protection Forum 2024 – Storm of Resistance](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/crop-protection-forum-2024-storm-of-resistance/) - Curtin University's Centre for Crop and Disease Management is hosting a forum on herbicide, fungicide and insecticide resistance in Highfields, QLD on Wednesday 27th November. Tickets: $130 (early bird), $160 (full registration), $100 (student), $80 (live stream only). See the CCDM website for more information.
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – Burdekin](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-burdekin/) - Tuesday 26 November 2024. Discuss the latest farm-ready information to improve profit, with researchers, agronomists and leading growers at the Burdekin GRDC Grains Research Update. TOPICS: Fall armyworm impacts & thresholds in sorghum & maize – management options & guidance for 2024/25. Melina Miles (QDAF) Fall armyworm and maize – what are the implications and options
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – Atherton](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-atherton/) - Wednesday 27 November 2024. Discuss the latest farm-ready information to improve profit, with researchers, agronomists and leading growers at the Atherton GRDC Grains Research Update. TOPICS: Fall armyworm impacts & thresholds in sorghum & maize – management options & guidance for 2024/25. Melina Miles (QDAF) Fall armyworm and maize – what are the implications and options
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – Goondiwindi](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-goondiwindi-2/) - Two-day Update on 30-31 July 2024, including several sessions on plant protection. Single day attendance and online viewing are also available. For the full agenda, pricing and registration, visit the GRDC website.
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – Talwood](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-talwood/) - 23 July 2024. $30pp. Includes sessions with the latest information on crown rot in cereals and fall armyworm in sorghum and maize. For more information and to register, visit the GRDC website.
- [GRDC online update - includes aerial application and drones](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-online-update-includes-aerial-application-and-drones/) - Free GRDC webinar on Tuesday 4 June from 10-11:30 am AEST. Topics include: Increasing momentum behind on-farm sustainability accreditation and developing market signals. ISCC canola standards and market access issues when selling canola overseas. Rosemary Richards (Sustainable Grain Australia) Aerial application in broadacre crop production. Scott Mackie (South East Air Ag) Use & misuse Communications between growers
- [CCA Early Career Workshop 2024](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/cca-early-career-workshop-2024/) - Tuesday 4 June 9-5 at Tamworth. $55 pp. If you are a consultant, a researcher, or a broader industry member who is just starting out - this workshop is for you. The day includes: Understanding your client. Being an effective team member / employee. Developing your support network, and surviving and thriving in rural communities.
- [GRDC Grains Research Update, online – Grain storage update for the northern & southern regions](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-online-grain-storage-update-for-the-northern-southern-regions/) - Free webinar 9-10:30 on Tuesday 11 June on: Aeration system design – The uses and limitations of existing aeration systems & questions to ask when purchasing or retrofitting. Alex Conway (GRDC Grain Storage Extension Team) Grain type & fan performance Fan performance & motor limitations Airflow Cooling results & air flow rates. Venting after fumigation
- [AFREN – managing foliar diseases and fungicide resistance workshop - Dubbo](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/afren-managing-foliar-diseases-and-fungicide-resistance-workshop-dubbo/) - 27-28 June 2024, covering: Cereal growth stages and spray decisions Where different fungicides fit Fungicide resistance management and resources Integrating fungicides, varieties, epidemiology, and seasons Cereal canopy management interactions with foliar disease decision making Management strategies that consider the underlying risk of fungicide resistance Strategies for managing SDHI and other resistance issues, including net blotches
- [AFREN – managing foliar diseases and fungicide resistance workshop – Wagga Wagga](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/afren-managing-foliar-diseases-and-fungicide-resistance-workshop-wagga-wagga/) - 25-26 June 2024, covering: Cereal growth stages and spray decisions Where different fungicides fit Fungicide resistance management and resources Integrating fungicides, varieties, epidemiology, and seasons Cereal canopy management interactions with foliar disease decision making Management strategies that consider the underlying risk of fungicide resistance Strategies for managing SDHI and other resistance issues, including net blotches
- [Fungicide resistance update webinar (net blotch)](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/fungicide-resistance-update-webinar-net-blotch/) - AFREN Fungicide Resistance Update Webinar – NET BLOTCH: Monitoring of Net and spot form net blotch resistance to fungicides. Thursday 4 April 1-2pm (AEDT) For more information and to register, visit the GRDC website.
- [Grain storage workshop - Gordonvale](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grain-storage-workshop-gordonvale/) - The free workshop sessions provide relevant, practical information to better manage on-farm grain storage. From purchase decisions, to preventing issues and managing grain quality with aeration, to dealing with insects. View the flyer Visit the Stored Grain Hub for more information and to register.
- [GRDC Online Update – FAW management considerations and risk assessment](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-online-update-faw-management-considerations-and-risk-assessment/) - GRDC are hosting this free webinar on Friday 23 February, starting at 9am AEST (10am NSW, 9:30am ACDT, 7am AWST). Speakers include: Ross Pomroy (Nutrien Ag Solutions, Dalby) Joe Eyre (University of Qld, QAAFI) Melina Miles (Qld Department of Agriculture and Fisheries) For more information and to register, visit the GRDC website
- [Mungbean Agronomy Course – Darling Downs](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/mungbean-agronomy-course-darling-downs/) - Mungbean agronomists, growers and AMA members are invited to attend a 2-day agronomy best practice training with industry professionals. Held at the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) offices (203 Tor St, Toowoomba): Wednesday 31 Jan from 9.00 am to 5.00 pm Thursday 1 Feb from 8.00 am to 4.00 pm. Cost: $495 pp (GST
- [GRDC update - Goondiwindi](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-update-goondiwindi/) - Tuesday 5 and Wednesday 6 March 2024. Sessions include aphids, insecticide impacts on beneficials, crown rot, net-blotch and automated disease detection. More information and registration at the GRDC website.
- [GRDC update - Baradine](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-update-baradine/) - 28 February 2024. Includes a session on fusarium crown rot. More information and registration at the GRDC website.
- [GRDC update: Dubbo](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-update-dubbo/) - Thursday 29 February and Friday 1 March 2024. Sessions include aphid management, soil borne diseases, crown rot, net blotch, rust, and sclerotinia. More information and registration at the GRDC website.
- [GRDC update - Wagga Wagga](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-update-wagga-wagga/) - 14-15 February 2024. Presentations on cereal diseases, including rust, Septoria and crown rot included on day 1. More information and registration at the GRDC website.
- [Insect workshop at Emerald](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/insect-workshop-at-emerald/) - Insect ID and management 'refresher' workshop to be held at the DAF conference rooms (Hospital Rd) on Wednesday 6 December. The day will now include a bonus disease session after lunch. Find out more and register on the Workshops for 2023 page.
- [Insect workshop at Gunnedah](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/insect-workshop-at-gunnedah/) - Insect ID and management workshop to be held at the Gunnedah RSL on Thursday 2 November. Find out more and register on the Insect workshops for 2023 page.
- [Insect workshop at Dalby](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/insect-workshop-at-dalby/) - Insect ID and management 'refresher' workshop to be held at the BMO conference rooms on Wednesday 8 November. Find out more and register on the Insect workshops for 2023 page.
- [GRDC online – Using the WAND Inversion Tower Network](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-online-using-the-wand-inversion-tower-network/) - Theme: Using the WAND Inversion Tower Network – How to access and interpret data Topics Accessing, interpreting and using data provided from the WAND network of inversion towers (Alicia Garden, Goanna Ag & Gordon Cumming, GRDC) Webinar starts at 9am (AEST) on 26 September and is free of charge. For more information and to register,
- [GRDC online update – foliar diseases in oats and crown-rot in cereals](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-online-update-foliar-diseases-in-oats-and-crown-rot-in-cereals/) - GRDC's online disease update webinar starts at 9am (AEST) and is free of charge. Topics: Foliar disease management in oats - what's happening & crystal ball issues for the rest of this season. Tara Garrard (SARDI) & Brad Baxter (NSW DPI) Fusarium (crown-rot) - what has happened in 2023 and inoculum load issues for 2024.
- [Slug Management Workshop – Allora](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/slug-management-workshop-allora/) - GRDC is providing hands-on slug management workshops in early spring, delivered by Dr Michael Nash. Spring monitoring methods will be demonstrated. These free workshops will enable growers to learn about the ecology and management of slug species present and found under refuges (placed out the night before) in an 'at risk' paddock. Participants will return to
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – Warra](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-warra/) - For more information and to register, visit the GRDC website. Topics: Improving nitrogen management in grain sorghum - 3 years looking at timing & type. Trevor Philp (Pacific Seeds) Optimising the nitrogen investment. Understanding & minimising N losses while feeding the crop what it needs. Mike Bell (UQ) Early plant sorghum - is it worth it? An
- [Autumn insect webinar](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/autumn-insect-webinar/) - Join NSW DPI and QDAF experts in this online webinar, providing updates on key summer pests (fall armyworm, corn earworm, Rutherglen bug) and prospects for the upcoming season on aphids, establishment pests, and other things to be aware of. Download the flyer (780kb pdf) Register for this webinar (via zoom)
- [Improving powdery mildew management in mungbean: field walk and workshop – Toowoomba](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/improving-powdery-mildew-management-in-mungbean-field-walk-and-workshop-toowoomba/) - 20 March 9am-12 at UniSQ Powdery mildew is a disease that impacts mungbean crops annually and if left unmanaged can cause yield losses of up to 40%. With little genetic resistance in current varieties, management relies on the application of fungicides. As a result of a previous GRDC investment, a decision support tool, the PowderyMildewMBM
- [GRDC Spray Days – Osborne](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-spray-days-osborne/) - Technology and social licence are changing how we spray fallow and crops. Come to the GRDC Spray Day at Osborne in March to discuss the latest spray technology innovations and stewardship with industry experts. In the afternoon trade display session, growers can focus in on the technologies they are most interested in, with direct access
- [GRDC Spray Days – Narrabri](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-spray-days-narrabri/) - Come to the GRDC Spray Day at Jondaryan in March to discuss the latest spray technology innovations and stewardship with industry experts. In the afternoon trade display session, growers can focus in on the technologies they are most interested in, with direct access to leading industry technology providers. Cost is free (morning tea and lunch
- [GRDC Spray Days – Jondaryan](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-spray-days-jondaryan/) - Come to the GRDC Spray Day at Jondaryan in March to discuss the latest spray technology innovations and stewardship with industry experts. In the afternoon trade display session, growers can focus in on the technologies they are most interested in, with direct access to leading industry technology providers. Cost is free (morning tea and lunch
- [GroundUp Agtech Showcase Day – Toowoomba](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/groundup-agtech-showcase-day-toowoomba/) - Discover some of the latest innovations in the grains sector at the Agtech and Logistics Hub’s GroundUp Agtech Showcase Day at the Agtech and Logisctics Hub, corner of Witmack Road and Vision Street, Wellcamp, Toowoomba, QLD 4350 Drones, drift reduction technology and farm safety software are just some of the cutting-edge agtech that will be
- [GRDC Grains Research Update Mullaley](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-mullaley/) - 8:30 am – 3:10 pm Thursday 2 March 2023 For more information and to register visit https://grdc.com.au/events/list/2023/03/grdc-grains-research-update-mullaley
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – Goondiwindi](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-goondiwindi/) - 9:30 am Tuesday 28 February – 3:10 pm Wednesday 1 March 2023 Includes a presentation on 'Fall armyworm impacts by crop, management strategy & resistance by Melina Miles (DAF Qld) For more information and to register visit https://grdc.com.au/events/list/2023/02/grdc-grains-research-update-goondiwindi
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – Dubbo](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-dubbo/) - 9:30 am – 3 pm Wednesday 22 February 2023 For more information and to register visit https://grdc.com.au/events/list/2023/02/grdc-grains-research-update-dubbo
- [GRDC Grains Research Update – Corowa](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-corowa/) - 8:30 am – 3 pm Thursday 16 February 2023 For more information and to register visit https://grdc.com.au/events/list/2023/02/grdc-grains-research-update-corowa
- [GRDC Grains Research Update Wagga Wagga](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-grains-research-update-wagga-wagga/) - 9:30 am Tuesday 14 February - 3 pm Wednesday 15 February 2023 For more information and to register visit https://grdc.com.au/events/list/2023/02/grdc-grains-research-update-wagga-wagga
- [GRDC online update - the new inversion tower network and reducing spray drift risk](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-online-update-the-new-inversion-tower-network-and-reducing-spray-drift-risk/) - Managing spray logistics is a challenge. Knowing when conditions are suitable for spraying to avoid spray drift is a critical part of this puzzle. The new inversion tower network will help take the guess work out of when you can and can’t spray and potentially open more spraying hours with greater certainty. This technology will
- [Insect workshop (Chinchilla)](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/insect-workshop-chinchilla/) - A workshop on insect identification and management will be held at Chinchilla on Wednesday 30 November. Previous workshops were held in Toowoomba and Narrabri in October. To register your interest and secure a place visit https://thebeatsheet.com.au/workshop-registrations-2022
- [GRDC Online Update – Wet conditions, high insect pressure and changed behaviour](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-online-update-wet-conditions-high-insect-pressure-and-changed-behaviour/) - Exceedingly wet conditions in 2022 will mean different, and in some cases more, insect pests than we have become used to in the drier years. Helicoverpa is already in very high numbers, with numbers likely to increase as the summer progresses. Helicoverpa armigera, which was last seen in wheat in 2016, is already in high
- [FAW field day (sweet corn) at DAF Bowen](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/faw-field-day-sweet-corn-at-daf-bowen/) - The DAF horticulture team are holding a FAW afternoon from 3:30-5:30 pm at the Bowen Research Station, showcasing their sweet corn demonstration sites. The 2 hour session will include: Fall armyworm research updates Demonstrations of drone spray application in sweet corn Displays of parasitoids, predators, pathogens found in the field, & fall armyworm management information.
- [Webinar: Pest prospects for spring 2022](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/webinar-pest-prospects-for-spring-2022/) - With the wetter winter and prospects of another La Niña in 2022-23, it is worth taking a look at what this is likely to mean for insect pests and their management. Wetter conditions typically allow many insect species to survive over winter because there are more plant hosts available. This often leads to earlier build-up
- [Insect workshop (Narrabri)](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/insect-workshop-narrabri/) - A workshop on insect identification and management will be held at Narrabri's RSL on Wednesday 19 October. This is the second of three to be held in 2022, with the first occurring in Toowoomba on Wednesday 12 October, and the third TBA. To register your interest and secure a place visit https://thebeatsheet.com.au/workshop-registrations-2022
- [Insect workshop (Toowoomba)](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/insect-workshop-toowoomba-2/) - A workshop on insect identification and management will be held at the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, Tor St complex on Wednesday 12 October. This is the first of three to be held in 2022, with the second occurring in Narrabri on Wednesday 19 October, and the third TBA. To register your interest visit https://thebeatsheet.com.au/workshop-registrations-2022
- [GRDC online update: Stripe rust](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-online-update-stripe-rust/) - Theme: Stripe rust update for spring 2022 – what’s happening? Topics Stripe rust pathotype update - what's out there and implications for current cultivars (Robert Park, University of Sydney PBI) High inoculum loads and the economics of spraying high yield potential crops for stripe rust (Nick Poole, Far Australia) Stripe rust – what’s happening in
- [GRDC Spray Days – Emerald](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-spray-days-emerald/) - GRDC Spray Days cover the latest developments in spray application technology and stewardship for grain growers and their advisers. GRDC Spray Days provide a platform for growers to interact with industry to hear about, see and discuss spray technology innovations with industry experts, enabling growers to make more informed decisions on spray equipment investment and how
- [GRDC Spray Days - Temora](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-spray-days-temora/) - Technology and social license are changing how we spray fallow and field crops. Come to a GRDC Spray Day in September to discuss the latest spray technology innovations and stewardship with industry experts. Spray Days will assist growers to make more informed decisions on spray equipment investment and how to use technology for optimum benefit.
- [GRDC Spray Days – Narromine](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/grdc-spray-days-narromine/) - Technology and social license are changing how we spray fallow and field crops. Come to a GRDC Spray Day in September to discuss the latest spray technology innovations and stewardship with industry experts. Spray Days will assist growers to make more informed decisions on spray equipment investment and how to use technology for optimum benefit.
- [Insect workshop - Dalby](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/insect-workshop-dalby/) - DAF, with support from GRDC, will be running several insect identification and management workshops in June and July. These workshops will cover: hands-on sessions and group discussion efficient and effective sampling an overview of insect development and identification tips thresholds and how to use them a look at specific crops (including a session on insects
- [Insect workshop - Toowoomba](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/insect-workshop-toowoomba/) - DAF, with support from GRDC, will be running several insect identification and management workshops in June and July. These workshops will cover: hands-on sessions and group discussion efficient and effective sampling an overview of insect development and identification tips thresholds and how to use them a look at specific crops (including a session on insects
- [Insect workshop - Goondiwindi](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/insect-workshop-goondiwindi/) - DAF, with support from GRDC, will be running several insect identification and management workshops in June and July. These workshops will cover: hands-on sessions and group discussion efficient and effective sampling an overview of insect development and identification tips thresholds and how to use them a look at specific crops (including a session on insects
- [Insect workshop - Emerald](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/insect-workshop-emerald/) - DAF, with support from GRDC, will be running several insect identification and management workshops in June and July. These workshops will cover: hands-on sessions and group discussion efficient and effective sampling an overview of insect development and identification tips thresholds and how to use them a look at specific crops (including a session on insects
- [Managing Climate Variability R&D Program and Extreme Events Forecasting webinar](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/managing-climate-variability-rd-program-and-extreme-events-forecasting-webinar/) - Hosted by Meat & Livestock Australia, the webinar will provide an overview of the long-standing cross-sectoral Managing Climate Variability (MCV) Program and introduce the Forewarned is Forearmed (FWFA) Rural R&D for Profit Project. His presentation will focus on the outputs, outcomes and impacts sought from the MCV and FWFA for individual producers and broader industry
- [Pest updates in field crops and potential future season impacts (NSW)](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/pest-updates-in-field-crops-and-potential-future-season-impacts-nsw/) - NSW DPI will be hosting a webinar on 3 June from 4-5 pm. The program will include: Insect pests in a drought-breaking year - Hugh Brier (QDAF entomologist) Aphid update - Zorica Duric (NSW DPI entomologist) Virus disease outlook on pulse crops for 2020 - Joop van Leur (NSW DPI plant pathologist) Fall armyworm experience
- [Northern grains region pest management seasonal update (QLD)](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/event/northern-grains-region-pest-management-seasonal-update/) - This summer season has been memorable for a number of reasons, not all of them good. Please join DAF entomologists Melina Miles and Hugh Brier, DAF pathologist Lisa Kelly and NSW DPI entomologist Zorica Duric as they provide an overview of issues encountered in summer crops. They will also cover things to consider as winter

## Categories

- [Other](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/other/) - uncategorised elsewhere
- [chickpeas](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/crops/pulses/chickpeas/)
- [silverleaf whitefly](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/pests/silverleaf-whitefly/)
- [cotton](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/crops/cotton/)
- [winter cereals](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/crops/grains/winter-cereals/)
- [sorghum](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/crops/grains/sorghum/)
- [sunflower](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/crops/sunflower/)
- [Rutherglen bug](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/pests/rutherglen-bug/)
- [aphids](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/pests/aphids/)
- [helicoverpa](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/pests/helicoverpa/)
- [armyworm](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/pests/armyworm/)
- [mirids](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/pests/mirids/)
- [soybeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/crops/pulses/soybeans/)
- [mungbeans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/crops/pulses/mungbeans/)
- [pulses](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/crops/pulses/)
- [mealybugs](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/pests/mealybugs/)
- [grains](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/crops/grains/)
- [canola](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/crops/canola/)
- [Etiella](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/pests/etiella/)
- [faba beans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/crops/pulses/faba-beans/)
- [Pests](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/pests/)
- [Crops](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/crops/)
- [maize](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/crops/grains/maize/)
- [Soil insects](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/pests/soil-insects/)
- [Beneficials](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/beneficials/)
- [Management](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/management/)
- [peanuts](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/crops/pulses/peanuts/)
- [Disease](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/disease/)
- [FAW](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/pests/faw/)
- [vectors](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/disease/vectors/)
- [sampling](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/management/sampling/)
- [storage](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/management/storage/)
- [resistance](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/category/management/resistance/)

## Tags

- [diapause](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/diapause/)
- [bunchy top](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/bunchy-top/)
- [late season](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/late-season/)
- [management](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/management/)
- [NPV](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/npv/)
- [soybean moth](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/soybean-moth/)
- [stem borers](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/stem-borers/)
- [field crickets](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/field-crickets/)
- [thresholds](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/thresholds/)
- [events](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/events/)
- [thrips](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/thrips/)
- [loopers](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/loopers/)
- [publications](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/publications/)
- [resistance](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/resistance/)
- [research](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/research-2/)
- [parasitism](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/parasitism/)
- [monitoring](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/monitoring/)
- [defoliation](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/defoliation/)
- [podborer](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/podborer/)
- [leaf miner](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/leaf-miner/)
- [helicoverpa](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/helicoverpa/)
- [vectors](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/vectors/)
- [wheat](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/wheat/)
- [diamondback moth](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/diamondback-moth/)
- [slugs](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/slugs/)
- [ladybird](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/ladybird/)
- [weevil](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/weevil/)
- [scarabs](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/scarabs/)
- [symphyla](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/symphyla/)
- [wireworm](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/wireworm/)
- [establishment](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/establishment/)
- [midge](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/midge/)
- [locusts](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/locusts/)
- [weeds](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/weeds/)
- [mites](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/mites/)
- [faba beans](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/faba-beans/)
- [phytoplasma](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/phytoplasma/)
- [stored product pests](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/stored-product-pests/)
- [identification](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/identification/)
- [RGB](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/rgb/)
- [stem fly](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/stem-fly/)
- [pesticides](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/pesticides/)
- [weather](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/tag/weather/)

## Event Categories

- [webinar](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/events/category/webinar/)
- [conference](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/events/category/conference/)
- [workshop](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/events/category/workshop/)
- [update](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/events/category/update/)
- [Showcase](https://thebeatsheet.com.au/events/category/showcase/)