Articles
EFFECT OF AN INSECT VACUUM DEVICE ON STRAWBERRY POLLINATORS
Article number
437_47
Pages
373 – 378
Language
Abstract
The Biovac® is a self-propelled vacuum device designed to control insect pests of strawberry.
Biovac® passages significantly reduced the pollinator populations, especially that of honey bees.
When the Biovac® approached, only 19% (n=186) of pollinators present on strawberry flowers flew away.
Of those that remained, 61% were aspirated and 39% remained clinging to the plants.
The active period for most pollinators was between 8.00 h. and 18.00 h.
It is therefore recommended that the Biovac® be passed before or after this time period.
Biovac® passages significantly reduced the pollinator populations, especially that of honey bees.
When the Biovac® approached, only 19% (n=186) of pollinators present on strawberry flowers flew away.
Of those that remained, 61% were aspirated and 39% remained clinging to the plants.
The active period for most pollinators was between 8.00 h. and 18.00 h.
It is therefore recommended that the Biovac® be passed before or after this time period.
Publication
Authors
H. Chiasson, C. Vincent, D. Oliveira
Keywords
Biovac®, pollinators, strawberry plant, Fragaria x ananassa, Apis mellifera, behavior
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