Conservation Biological Control (CBC) involves the promotion and management of native natural enemy populations, such as predators and parasitoids, to control pest species, with the goal of reducing the use of pesticides in natural and agricultural systems. Populations of natural enemies can be increased by the provision of suitable habitat with plant-based food resources (pollen, nectar, extrafloral nectaries etc.) or alternative hosts for both pests and natural enemies (source or sink, host ranges and overwintering sites).
Moth borers are major pests of sugarcane in many sugar producing countries that are difficult to control and cause substantial damage to crops through reduction in both biomass and sugar content. Although Australia only has one endemic moth borer species affecting sugarcane, a further 37 species occur in neighbouring cane growing countries. Moreover, the moth borer complex has been reported to cause up to 70% yield loss in sugarcane growing regions of countries neighbouring Australia like Indonesia and PNG and have been identified as a high priority biosecurity threat for the Australian sugarcane industry.
In the case of exotic moth borers, chemical insecticides would only provide short term rapid management as part of an early incursion plan, but it leaves a long-lasting problem including the potential for pest resurgence, insecticide resistance, detrimental environmental impacts on wildlife, natural enemies, waterways, and health of growers. Therefore, this project is focused on CBC based Integrated Pest Management, which is a sustainable management approach that includes conservation and enhancement of existing native natural enemies in local habitats. CBC-based IPM of sugarcane will ultimately reduce the use of broad-spectrum insecticides resulting in more balanced natural ecosystem with functional natural enemies. This is an economically feasible, environmentally friendly sustainable post-incursion management approach which will provide safe hub for natural enemies of moth borers and other pest insects.
Aim: This project aims to develop pest management strategies of exotic moth borers through conservation biological control.
Meet the PhD student for this project
Viviana Aya Vargas
My name is Viviana. I am a biologist with over eight years of experience working across insect biology, molecular techniques, and sustainable pest management. My research experience in Colombia has strengthened my interest in integrating insect–microbe–plant interactions and developing innovative biological control approaches.
Through my PhD research in the ARC Training Centre in Plant Biosecurity, I aim to contribute to the sustainability and health of sugarcane crops by investigating how conservation biological control can strengthen native natural enemies. This project allows me to combine my background in entomology, microbiology, and crop protection to support more resilient and environmentally responsible agriculture.
Outside of research, I enjoy dancing, exploring new places, and learning about different cultures and landscapes.
Supervisors and advisors
Dr Myles Menz, James Cook University.
Professor Lori Lach, James Cook University.
Dr Emtia Chandrima, Sugar Research Australia.
Dr Kevin Powell, Sugar Research Australia.
Approach
The project is expected to include experimental design and setup, field surveys, trap instalments and monitoring and related lab and field activities, data collection and statistical analysis, manuscript writing and presentation in industry meetings, field days and industry and international conferences. It will include pilot studies on native natural enemies’ habitats and monitoring in sugarcane fields.
Questions? Questions about this project can be directed to Sarah Adams, Chief Operating Officer, at plantbiosecurity@anu.edu.au or +61 459 341 281.