Management strategies for faba bean aphid

Abstract

Key findings • The faba bean aphid (FBA, Megoura crassicauda), first detected in multiple New South Wales (NSW) sites, expanded its range rapidly in 2022, causing problems in early planted crops in NSW. It has become established in NSW and Victoria, and its presence expanded into southeast Queensland and Tasmania. • The insecticides tested (imidacloprid, pirimicarb and pymetrozine, applied alone and combined treatments) reduced FBA numbers in field conditions compared with the control, where intensive damage, predators, and parasitoids were observed. Imidacloprid seed treatment effectively controlled FBAs on emerged faba beans, particularly when combined with foliar treatments in the field experiment. • Effective FBA management involves controlling green bridge and volunteer plants before the growing season, monitoring pests and beneficial insects, and applying insecticides based on established thresholds if available.