Effects of neonicotinoids and sulfoxaflor application against sucking pests infesting watermelon and their associated predators

Abstract EN

Field studies were carried out during 2018 and 2019 summer seasons, at Nubarya district, El-Beheira Governorate to evaluate the effects of some neonicotinoid insecticides (Imidacloprid, clothianidin, thiamethoxam and acetamiprid) compared with sulfoxaflor, at recommended rates against sucking pests infesting watermelon and their associated predators.

Results showed that, all treatments exhibited excellent and fast action activity against Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) ( Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) and the least reduction percentages were recorded by acetamiprid at both seasons.

Under the same conditions, neonicotinoid insecticides have toxic effect on predators; Chrysoperla carnea (Stephens) (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae), Paederus alfierii Koch.

(Coleoptera: Staphylinidae) and Coccinella spp.) ( Coleoptera : Coccinellidae) while, sulfoxaflor has slightly toxic effect.

The present study suggests neonicotinoid insecticides can be disruptive to natural and biological control by reducing insect predators populations, so the population of Tetranychus urticae Koch.

(Acari: Tetranychidae) will be increased during both seasons.

Yet, sulfoxaflor is also reported as being slightly harmful to biological control agents, it as a preferred insecticide, with less harmful effects on the fitness components of natural enemies, for integrated pest management of sucking insects (B.

tabaci) on watermelon plantations.