Generating a taxonomic database of fruit pests in the Western Cape

Correct insect pest identification is a critical aspect of IPM in fruit production. Damage symptoms are also often not identified correctly, which leads to incorrect treatment/management of a suspected pest problem. The aim of this project is to build an active taxonomic database of pests occurring in deciduous fruit orchards, wine grapes and other fruit crops based on, primarily, correct identification by an expert or using molecular techniques, which should lead to a better understanding and therefore better management of pest problems. Of the 470 of the samples submitted for identification, only 171 were related to the fruit industries. For this reason and due to limitations of capacity in the Department, it is recommended that for the service only samples limited to the fruit industry be processed. With limited capacity, this would be the most practical way in which to continue with the service in future and yet still gain valuable information on potential pest risks.