Pest Identification
Pest identification is a step that is sometimes taken for granted. Nevertheless, accurate identification of the pest must always be confirmed. Although this process is one of the most basic elements of pest management, mistakes in identification are still common, especially when many pests are similar in appearance or behavior. Accurately identifying the pest and its damage, recognizing which life stages are present, and understanding the life history of the pest and how it interacts with people are all factors that help a pest manager anticipate damage and exploit the weak links in the pest’s biology. Management efforts should never take place before the pest is properly identified.
The importance of correctly identifying the pest cannot be overstated, but this does not mean every pest manager must have a degree in entomology. A number of excellent manuals and guides are available to assist with insect identification.
In many cases, the insects are either not present, are hidden, or are in a form that is not readily identifiable. In such cases, identification must be made based on the presence of pest signs, such as holes or tunnels, fecal materials left behind, or damage done to a plant or product. Confirming pest identification is critical. The Internet offers a wealth of instant information, much of which is very good. However, because nearly anything can be posted, the reliability of Web-based information is sometimes questionable. Written reference materials are still the most reliable sources for entomologists. Recommended texts and field guides are too numerous to list here, but pest managers can obtain suggestions for appropriate pest identification manuals from local University Cooperative Extension Service educators or specialists.
This book also contains information and photographs of the most common pests in the midwestern United States, their damaging stage, and in some cases, accompanying signs that may help a pest manager make a correct diagnosis. It will serve as a great first reference.
During inspections, pest managers should carry along some important tools to assist in accurate diagnosis.
A magnifying lens is important because many insects are small and the identifying characteristics that separate them from other insects are almost invisible to the naked eye. Collecting the insects is almost always standard. Small collection vials can be used to hold the insects while identification is being made, preserve the insect for future reference, or transport it to specialists. Having field guides or other reference books handy is also recommended.
The purpose of the inspection is to gather information that will be used to make pest management decisions. Pest managers performing inspections must be knowledgeable about the types of pests that typically occur in their system, where and how to find these pests, and the conditions that favor pest activity.
Effective pest managers anticipate pest activity based on environmental conditions and past occurrences.
An important and common pest associated with a particular system is called a key pest. There are usually four or five key pests in each system. For example, one key pest found in kitchens throughout much of the world is the German cockroach. White grubs are key pests of turfgrass throughout the Midwest. Codling moths and corn rootworms are key pests in midwestern horticulture and agriculture. Mosquitoes and deer flies are key health-related pests.
Pest managers must be familiar with the key pests in the systems they manage. They should know what time of year infestations may occur and what specific environmental conditions favor their development in order to be alert for signs of key pest activity.
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