Biorational insecticides for control of the tomato potato psyllid

Since its discovery in 2006, the tomato potato psyllid, Bactericera cockerelli (Sulc) (TPP), has been considered a signiicant pest of solanaceous crops in New Zealand, resulting in an intensiication of insect pest control measures, often with the use of broad-spectrum insecticides. In the search for more sustainable control methods in outdoor potato crops, several biorational insecticides were tested in laboratory bioassays to assess their effects on TPP behaviour and mortality. The products tested were Organic JMS Stylet-Oil®, Excel Oil®, Eco-Oil®, Neem 600 WP and Sap Sucker Plus. Given the eficacy of JMS Stylet- Oil®, Sap Sucker Plus and Excel Oil® at reducing TPP numbers and their probing/feeding deterrent qualities, these products are now being tested in a ield trial. The impacts of the tested biorational insecticides on beneicial insects are also being assessed in laboratory and ield trials.