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Research: We have experiments at Beaumont, Eagle Lake, Ganado and in commercial rice fields this year. Experiments are being conducted on stem borers, rice stink bug, chinch bug, aphids and rice water weevil. We are evaluating new insecticidal seed treatments to replace Icon. Some of these seed treatments may have a broader spectrum of activity than Icon (i.e., control rice water weevil, aphids, thrips and possibly fall armyworm). We also are evaluating etofenprox (a very common insecticide for rice insects in Japan) and dinotefuron applied pre- and post-flood for rice water weevil control. |
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At Eagle Lake and Ganado we are investigating timing of Mustang Max for maximum control of stem borers, planting date effects on stem borer populations and damage, and varietal susceptibility to stem borers. We are developing an easier method for sampling rice stink bug and evaluating rice stink bug residual control using tank mixes of various surfactants/oils and methyl parathion. We are determining the effects of bird cherry oat aphid on seedling rice and investigating chinch bug damage on ratoon rice. |
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We are evaluating currently grown rice
varieties for relative resistance to the rice water weevil. We also
are determining the best time to apply Mustang Max for rice water
weevil control and assessing pre-flood herbicide/Mustang Max tank
mixes for potential antagonism. At Eagle Lake, we are evaluating
rice water weevil populations and damage in a stale and conventional
seedbed on fine sandy loam soil. At Ganado, we are conducting stem
borer research to determine the best time to apply Karate Z and to
determine varietal resistance to stem borers. This research is in
cooperation with Dr. Gene Reagan, LSU Entomologist. In addition, a
Ph. D. graduate student, Luis Espino, is developing an easier method
than sweep net for sampling rice stink bug. |
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Extension:
The Entomology Project continues to make on-site inspections of
problem rice fields. This year false chinch bug, Nyssius raphanus,
was found in very high numbers in a stale seedbed rice field in
Liberty Co. A hard rain killed the insects before further
observations were made, but we will continue to be on the look-out
for this insect in the future. The Entomology Project coordinated,
prepared and contributed to the 2004 Rice Production Guidelines
which is available through the Beaumont Center website:
http://beaumont.tamu.edu. In
addition, we contributed to Texas Rice and Rice Production
Updates and participated in County Extension Agent meetings. We
believe Research and Extension must be totally integrated to provide
maximum service to the Texas rice industry. |
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Regulatory: As the technical representative for Texas on USA Rice Federation/US Rice Producers Association Environmental Affairs Subcommittee, I and other Texas colleagues have supplied necessary data and information to the committee in support of continuing the current use patterns of propanil, prolonging the registration and availability of Icon and possibly convincing EPA to grant a rice stink bug label for Orthene. The Committee is in the process of discussing the Orthene issue with the registrant to develop the best plan to approach EPA for a favorable decision. |
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The Entomology Project thanks Texas rice farmers for generously supporting our program. We also recognize the important financial contributions of various agrichemical companies, other private industries and USDA/CSREES CAR and RAMP programs. |
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