Screening root maggot lines/hybrids for genetic tolerance.

Abstract

Sugarbeet Root Maggot, Tetanops myopaeformis is causing increased production challenges for several areas of the Sugarbeet growing regions. Northeastern North Dakota, Northwestern Minnesota, Wyoming/Colorado, and Idaho are a few areas where Sugarbeet Root Maggots (SBRM) are present. Root Maggots reduce plant stands, plant vigor and can cause a significant reduction of grower yield and profit.  Control of SBRM is becoming more challenging as key insecticides like Chlorpyrifos have been banned. This has caused growers to be become more aggressive and timelier with applications of alternative insecticides that are currently registered for use. In addition to these common production practices, growers are also reliant on Sugarbeet insecticide seed treatments to help with control.  DLF Beet Seed recognizes the importance and continued need for SBRM tolerant hybrids and is actively placing emphasis on our SBRM breeding program to address the growing concern of Root Maggots throughout the US. A combination of line development and line evaluation has taken place in the Red River Valley and is showing positive results for improved SBRM tolerance in DLF Beet Seed varieties. We plan to continue these research efforts to bring our growers the best hybrids possible for years to come.