Resistance of melon genotypes to the leafminer

• Grant number: 09/51786-9
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: November 01, 2009
• End date: February 29, 2012
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Agronomy - Plant Health
• Principal Investigator: José Djair Vendramim
• Grantee: José Djair Vendramim
• Host Institution: Escola Superior de Agricultura Luiz de Queiroz (ESALQ). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Piracicaba , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Nowadays, the vegetable leafminer Liriomyza sativae (Blanchard) (Diptera: Agromyzidae) is one of the major pests in the melon production regions of Brazil. The outbreak of this pest has been frequently reported due to biological control disruptions caused by incorrect use of insecticides and to its high biotic potential. Therefore, it's fundamental to develop management strategies that act in balance to the environment. Studies on host plant resistance to insects play a fundamental role in this context. In this research project, we intend to evaluate the resistance of melon genotypes to the vegetable leafminer as well as to evaluate the possible resistance mechanisms involved. The insect population will be reared under laboratory conditions on bean plants. Initially, at least 45 melon genotypes will be tested in 5 groups of 9 genotypes in compare to a same control genotype (susceptible). Each group will be placed in one cage for infesting with adult leafminer flies. After 4 days, the mean number of mines per plant will be evaluated. Based on this data the Resistance Index will be estimated to select the most promising genotypes. In the further studies, the following parameters will be evaluated for the selected genotypes: the non-preference for oviposition with and without choice, the effect of genotypes on insect life history and reproduction and the tolerance of genotypes. The most promising genotypes can be used as potential candidates for melon breeding programs to the vegetable leafminer. (AU)