Crapemyrtle bark scale—Pollinators & Beneficials

Register:  https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/8187564320148175632.

1. The laboratory of Dr. Kevin M. Heinz in the Department of Entomology at Texas A&M University, College Station has focused on documenting the abundance and distribution of crapemyrtle bark scale natural enemies in Texas, the factors influencing these parameters, and initiating the search and possible importation of novel natural enemies that could possibly improve biological control of this pest. Kyle Gilder will present on his intensive survey of natural enemies occurring in two localities of Texas, across six consecutive seasons, and two crapemyrtle cultivar groups. Kenneth Masloski will present on his search for natural enemies in China that do not occur in Texas and his subsequent work to research their efficacy and safety as necessary prerequisites for obtaining a permit for possible field release in the future.
   2. Outbreaks of crape myrtle bark scale have led to increased use of insecticides on these crape myrtle trees in the landscape that would otherwise not be treated. The landscape entomology research team at Auburn University has focused on residues of these insecticides in treated trees and exposure to beneficial insects. In this webinar, Dr. David Held (Auburn Univ.) will discuss the current knowledge about what beneficials visit crape myrtle trees. In addition, he will discuss the routes of exposure of beneficials visiting treated trees.