Wingless grasshopper

Phaulacridium vittatum

Overview:

Type of Pest: Phaulacridium vittatum, commonly known as the Australian Plague Locust, is a large grasshopper species that can become a significant pest, particularly during outbreaks.

Physical Characteristics:

  • Size: Adult locusts can vary in size but are generally large, with body lengths ranging from 30 to 65 mm.
  • Color: Variable coloration, often displaying shades of brown, yellow, or green. Adults may have distinctive black and yellow markings.

Life Cycle:

  • Egg Stage: Eggs are laid in the soil during late summer or autumn.
  • Nymphal Stage: Nymphs hatch from eggs and go through several molts.
  • Adult Stage: Fully developed locusts emerge, and the cycle repeats.

Identification of Crop Infestation:

  • Feeding Damage: Locusts are herbivorous and can cause extensive damage by feeding on leaves, stems, and other plant parts.
  • Large Swarms: Australian Plague Locusts are known for forming large swarms, leading to widespread crop damage.

Management Strategies:

  1. Monitoring and Early Detection:

    • Surveillance: Regularly monitor locust populations and report any signs of increasing numbers.
    • Early Intervention: Swift response to early signs of an outbreak is crucial.

  2. Cultural Practices:

    • Vegetation Management: Control weeds and excess vegetation that may serve as a food source or habitat.
    • Crop Rotation: Rotate crops to disrupt the locust life cycle.

  3. Chemical Control:

    • Insecticides: Application of insecticides may be necessary during outbreaks or when locust populations are high.
    • Aerial Spraying: In severe cases, aerial spraying may be employed to control large swarms.

  4. Biological Control:

    • Natural Predators: Encourage natural predators such as birds, spiders, and predatory insects.
    • Microbial Control: Consider the use of microbial agents specific to locusts.

  5. Physical Barriers:

    • Netting: Install netting or barriers to protect vulnerable crops.
    • Trenches: Create trenches around crops to impede locust movement.

Note: Australian Plague Locusts are capable of causing extensive damage to crops and pastures, especially when present in large swarms. Integrated pest management (IPM) practices that combine monitoring, early detection, cultural, biological, and chemical control methods are crucial for effective locust management. Always follow recommended guidelines, and coordinate control efforts at regional or national levels during outbreaks.