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Boosting Diagnostics: Invertebrates in sugarcane

Wednesday, May 8, 2024
1:55 PM - 2:05 PM

Overview

Hank Xu, PhD Student, University of Southern Queensland


Speaker

Mr Hank Xu
Phd Student
UniSQ

Boosting Diagnostics: Invertebrates in Sugarcane

Abstract

Sugarcane (Saccharum spp. hybrids) faces significant challenges in Australia, with invertebrate pests posing a substantial threat to yield and quality. Effective management of these pests requires accurate diagnostic tools to assess infestation levels and devise targeted control strategies. However, the cultivation presents unique challenges for invertebrate monitoring due to its morphology, rapid growth habits, and ecological dynamics. In addition, there are major knowledge gaps in sap-sucking invertebrate diversity and pest status in commercially grown sugarcane in Australia. This study addresses these gaps by employing a combination of conventional and innovative sampling techniques to characterise invertebrate populations inhabiting sugarcane ecosystems. By integrating boosting diagnostics into the monitoring framework, this research aims to enhance preparedness, diagnostics, and surveillance for sustainable pest management in sugarcane cultivation. The findings contribute to the advancement of invertebrate ecology knowledge in sugarcane and demonstrate the development of innovative monitoring tools crucial for the sustainable management of this economically significant crop. Moreover, the study proposes future investigations leveraging molecular and remote sensing techniques to enhance pest detection capabilities, thereby providing a more nuanced understanding of invertebrate dynamics within sugarcane environments. This study underscores the importance of capability building in pest monitoring and management, paving the way for more efficient and sustainable agricultural practices.

Biography

Hank is a PhD student from the University of Southern Queensland, Toowoomba, but he has been based in Cairns for three years in the SRA Meringa office.
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