July 15, 2010
South Australian rapeseed hit by moth grub pest
Rapeseed fields on South Australia's Eyre Peninsula have been hit by the diamondback moth grub, and growers fear they might not be able to control the devastating pest this season, which is already damaging yields.
The diamondback moth grubs have been found in crops much earlier than usual, and it seems the pests have become resistant to many insecticides.
Local agronomist Nigel Myers said this is a huge concern for the South Australian region, which exports about AUD30 million (US$26.3 million) worth of rapeseed each year to Japan.
"It's been a great tool for them, growing rapeseed in their rotation, but if they're just getting total wipeout, total losses three out of four years, then they'll say no, that's enough," Myers added.
South Australia's grain fields are also preparing for one of the worst locust plagues in nearly 40 years, as the rainy weather provides ideal conditions for the locusts to thrive.
