PROJECTS

The brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae), is an invasive insect species that affects a wide range of crops in Greece. Our recent field observations have indicated that this pest causes significant damage to apple orchards. To investigate this harmful insect and develop effective management strategies, we prοposed a comprehensive study of its bioecology and control in apple orchards through the following research activities:

• Establishment of a pherormone trap monitoring network: Installation of three (3) different types of traps per orchard, namely rocket traps, pyramid traps, and electronic traps (Shindo traps), across a total of four (4) apple and pear orchards.
• Population monitoring: Monitoring of both adult and immature stages of H. halys in the study area from May to October each year (six months annually) over a three-year period.
• Investigation of insect bioecology: Comprehensive assessment of the bioecology of H. halys in apple orchards, focusing on its seasonal occurrence, the identification of affected plant parts and fruits, and the number of generations completed on apple trees.
• Management of overwintering adults: Development and evaluation of appropriate strategies for managing overwintering populations of the brown marmorated stink bug. This will include the installation of specially designed traps made from biodegradable materials, as well as Totem-type traps, for the mass trapping of adults emerging from or moving towards overwintering sites.
• Optimization of intervention timing: Identification of the most appropriate timing for pest control interventions, targeting the most susceptible stages of the insect's life cycle to maximize control effectiveness.
• Evaluation of plant protection products: Investigation of the efficacy of various biological and conventional plant protection products against different developmental stages of H. halys.
• Development of a predictive model: Finally, the project aims to develop a reliable forecasting model for the seasonal occurrence and population dynamics of the brown marmorated stink bug, Halyomorpha halys. Based on three years of field observations, the model will support the identification of optimal intervention timing and the implementation of effective pest management strategies under the specific |environmental and agricultural conditions of the study area.

The aim of the project “Integrated Management of the Brown Marmorated Stink Bug in Apple Orchards in the Zagora Region of Pelion” is to conduct a comprehensive investigation of the bioecology of the brown marmorated stink bug (Halyomorpha halys) and to develop effective control strategies for this pest in apple orchards within the framework of Integrated Pest Management (IPM).