The Handbook of Small Grain Insects is a comprehensive text that examines the biology and management of arthropod pest and beneficial species of small grain crops. Fifty-eight entomologists from throughout North America with expertise on specific pest groups have contributed to the text, thereby providing the most up-to-date information on pest biology and management available. The crops covered are wheat, barley, oats, rye, and triticale, with an emphasis on wheat.
The handbook contains the latest information on the management of small grain pests with introductory chapters discussing management tactics specifically related to small grain production. The handbook also brings together in one place an extensive amount of information on the biology and management of many minor pests of small grains that is often difficult to locate. A chapter on key cereal grain pests found outside North America is included as well as sections on parasitoids, predators and entomopathogens of small grain pests. Numerous photos and illustrated keys will help readers identify small grain pest and beneficial arthropods. An extensive glossary and index also are included.
The insect and mite pests that attack small grains are organized in sections covering: scientific classifications, origin and distribution, description (aids in identification), pest status (relative importance of the pest), injury (aids in diagnosis), life history, management, and natural enemies of these insect pests. Authors are identified at the end of each section, and a list of references for additional information is provided for most sections.
This handbook is designed for practitioners of integrated pest management (IPM) programs in small grains, growers, crop consultants, extension agents, agronomists, and agricultural sales representatives. Entomologists, entomology researchers and students will find this handbook indispensable. Horticulturists, plant pathologists, weed scientists, nematologists and scientists from related disciplines will also find the book to be a valuable reference.