Management of grapevine flea beetle, Scelodonta strigicollis during critical growth stages

The efficacy of six insecticides was evaluated against the adult grapevine flea beetles, Scelodonta strigicollis, using bioassays and field experiments during two most vulnerable grapevine growth stages, ie, bud sprouting and initial shoot growth stages. Laboratory bioassays employed topical application, dry film, leaf dip and a combined method. Spinetoram, spinosad, λ-cyhalothrin, fipronil and β-cyfluthrin + imidacloprid showed exceptional efficacy in these controlled settings. Field trials tested two methods: spraying canes followed by net coverage and beetle release and covering canes with netting, releasing beetles, then spraying inside the net. Notably, spinetoram, spinosad and β-cyfluthrin + imidacloprid consistently provided swift and effective pest management. These formulations achieved rapid control, with some instances of 100% mortality within one day. These findings provide tailored selection of insecticides for grape growers during critical growth stages, highlighting the potential of spinetoram, spinosad and β-cyfluthrin + imidacloprid as fast-acting insecticides for managing S. strigicollis effectively.