A Comprehensive Study of the Australian Commercial Insectary Industry and its Implications for Augmentative Biological Control
Year: 2015
Type: dissertation
Abstract: The Australian commercial insectary industry produces biological control agents (predator, parasitoid and nematode BCAs) to control pests. This study is the first to address its lack of growth and develop recommendations. During 2011–2013, semi-structured interviews (27) were conducted with the insectary owners, citrus pest management researchers and citrus growers. A national survey of citrus growers was undertaken. A mixed method design was followed to collect qualitative and quantitative data to analyse thematically. The Australian insectary industry started with citrus pest management in the 1970s and since then the industry has expanded to five companies and 36 commercial biological control agents (commercial BCAs) in 2014. It has estimated gross sales below AUD$10 million for the 2010–2011 financial year and no export market. Users of commercial BCAs have larger farms, more employees and a consultant. The complexity of the adoption of commercial BCA is the main reason that deterred small farm owners. The insectary owners were cautious to keep their rearing methods and other information secret because of commercial confidentiality. The costs of establishing a new insectary, developing a new commercial BCA, logistics, biosecurity and skill shortage are major barriers. Patents, collaboration and government support are essential for the industry expansion. It can develop technical support software, use Skype (or an equivalent program) and develop insect identification and monitoring flash cards for technical support. It can use a model grower for advertisement and establish a retail office in all states. It can establish IPM shops or contact local shops and encourage them to sell IPM grown fresh produce. The IPM logo, TV and radio programs can increase consumers’ awareness. It needs to focus on organic farmers and encourage their uptake of the commercial BCAs. Pest management consultants and extension officers require some education about IPM or commercial BCAs.
Author: Mahmuda Begum
Language: English
Subfield: Insect Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDGs: Zero hunger, Life on land
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W2414801549