IPM test #1

What is IPM?

an ecosystem-based strategy that focuses on long-term prevention of pests or their damage through a combination of techniques such as biological control, habitat manipulation, modification of cultural practices, and the use of resistant varieties.

The integration

Pest resistant varieties

change planting dates

change harvest dates

crop rotation

managing water

What are the data used to determine losses by weeds?

Scouting and expert evaluation

shading effect

comparisons to other weeds in same crop

Ecology

is the science dealing with the mutual relationship among biological organisms and their environment

Ecosystem

a functioning system of complementary relations between living organisms and their environment

Agroecosystem

an ecosystem modified to produce, fiber, food, and other products of economic value

Pest X natural enemies X plant host X other organisms X the environment = the pest as a problem= management decision

Species/individual

single animals, plant, microorganism, and their individual population; relationship between a single species and others of the same species

Genotype

genetic code (3 different weeds in different environments)

Phenotype

organism reacts with the environment

Niche

the role the individual plays in that ecosystem

Population

the group of an individual in the same space possessing characteristics unique to the group

Population density

the number of individuals in a defined area

Age distribution

the proportion of individuals in each age group

Density independent factors

after growth and numbers regardless of population size: flood, drought, fire, disturbances, pest management action (spraying)

Density dependent factors

different affects when population is high versus low

Ecotype

an adapted population capable of thriving in a local habitat

Species richness/diversity

richness is the number of different species; diversity includes an abundance factor

Ecotones/edge effect

ecotones are the transition areas between communities

Additional definable components

Soil- as habitat, nutrient source, water reservoir

water- in particular amount, form, and timing of precipitation

temperature- average high and low frost dates,

lights- energy source, wavelength, duration/photoperiod

Soil characteristics play a role in the management of pests

Porosity

Organic matter

Texture

CEC (cation exchange capactity)

Water holding capacity

Infiltration

Microbial life

Yield potential determined by:

Light

temperature

carbon dioxide

cultivar choice

water supply

soil type

Farm yield gap limited by:

poor fertility

insects, weeds, diseases

poor management

So a disease develops only when the ecology of the situation is “lined up”

1. a susceptible host

2. a pathogen in the area

3. an environment favorable to pathogen infection/growth

R strategists

stands for “rate” pests will focus on a rapid rate of reproduction, rapid colonization typically be smaller in size, and efficiently find a host; low offspring survival (pigweed)

K strategists

represents “carrying capacity” focuses on the long-term survival success, slower reproduction rates, slow growth rates (elephant)