Rearing Insects for Research

NYSIPM Rears Seedcorn Maggot and Spotted Lanternfly for Essential Research

Seedcorn Maggot

Under the direction of Livestock and Field Crops Specialist Kenneth Wise, NYSIPM is leading statewide efforts to find alternatives to neonicotinoid seed treatments in controlling seedcorn maggot (Delia platura) (SCM) in corn and soybeans. Wise and a team of researchers began rearing SCM at the Hudson Valley Research Laboratory in summer 2022 and have used the pests to help them determine what types of pollinator-safe seed treatments will be effective in managing SCM. The reared maggots have been used in bioassays to help NYSIPM better understand when and at what level of damage SCM will infest seed under different environmental conditions and with biological and synthetic insecticide seed treatments.

fly in a deli cup with beans and corn — Photo by Roberto Regaldo

Spotted Lanternfly

As the spotted lanternfly continues to spread throughout New York State, there is an urgent need to develop effective and sustainable control measures to manage outbreaks. In response to this need, NYSIPM Technician Roberto Regalado, stationed at the Hudson Valley Research Laboratory reared these invasive insects in a secure laboratory environment. From the reared pests, which were collected from egg masses found in trees, he was able to study their behavior, lifecycle and to prepare for future testing of innovative control methods.

tree of heaven in pots with spotted lanternfly nymphs — Spotted lanternfly on potted tree of heaven indoors. Photo by Roberto Regaldo.

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Ken Wise

Associate Director, Agricultural IPM, Dairy/Livestock IPM Coordinator

Cornell Integrated Pest Management

Ken Wise

klw24 [at] cornell.edu

Brian Eshenaur

Associate Director, Invasive Species IPM Coordinator

Cornell Integrated Pest Management

Brian Eshenaur

(585) 753-2561
bce1 [at] cornell.edu