Effects of Integrated Pest Management for grazing dairy cattle on beneficial insect diversity
Conference Year
2023
Abstract
Common chemical parasiticides ivermectin and deltamethrin contain components such as macrocyclic lactones, which remain partially unmetabolized by cattle, leaving residues in dung and soil (Floate 2006). These residues have been linked to a significant reduction in the survival of dung beetle larvae and pupae, as well as diversity (Lumaret et al. 1993, Sands and Wall 2018). Here, we assess alternative integrated pest management (IPM) principles on beneficial insect diversity in pasturelands. Using dung-baited traps at 27 Vermont dairy farms, we analyze species abundance, richness, and diversity, aiming to develop an IPM toolkit for eco-friendly practices and reduced financial burden.
Primary Faculty Mentor Name
Nicholas Gotelli
Status
Undergraduate
Student College
College of Arts and Sciences
Second Student College
College of Agriculture and Life Sciences
Program/Major
Biology
Primary Research Category
Life Sciences
Effects of Integrated Pest Management for grazing dairy cattle on beneficial insect diversity
Common chemical parasiticides ivermectin and deltamethrin contain components such as macrocyclic lactones, which remain partially unmetabolized by cattle, leaving residues in dung and soil (Floate 2006). These residues have been linked to a significant reduction in the survival of dung beetle larvae and pupae, as well as diversity (Lumaret et al. 1993, Sands and Wall 2018). Here, we assess alternative integrated pest management (IPM) principles on beneficial insect diversity in pasturelands. Using dung-baited traps at 27 Vermont dairy farms, we analyze species abundance, richness, and diversity, aiming to develop an IPM toolkit for eco-friendly practices and reduced financial burden.