Semester
Summer
Date of Graduation
2008
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Type
MS
College
Davis College of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Design
Department
Horticulture
Committee Chair
Sven Verlinden.
Abstract
Various methods have been suggested to control or deter MBB from attacking bean crops, however conclusive data detailing the effectiveness of control methods and their effects on green bean yield are limited. Two separate experiments were performed to compare MBB management practices in snap bean crops and determine snap bean varieties with natural tolerance to MBB infestations. P. foveolatus in snap bean crops significantly (P<0.05) reduced the larval and adult MBB populations, while increasing the bean yield in optimal growing conditions. The use of row cover and staggering of planting date proved to be unsuccessful (P>0.05) increasing bean yield, however MBB larval, pupal, and adult populations were found to be different (P<0.05) when growing conditions wee optimal. When MBB populations were above the economic threshold (1--1.5 MBB larvae per plant) in the test, tolerance to MBB infestation was not observed (P>0.05) in any of the varieties studied.
Recommended Citation
Fess, Tiffany L., "Organic management of Mexican bean beetle (Epilachna varivestis Mulsant) in snap bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.)" (2008). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports. 2607.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/2607