Compensatory Abilities of Canola in Response to Swede Midge (Diptera: Cecidomyiidae) Damage

Swede midge (Contarinia nasturtii Kieffer) is an invasive, economic pest of canola (Brassica napus L.) that threatens production throughout Canada. Swede midge has up to four overlapping generations, placing canola at risk of multiple infestations in the field. The relationship between single and multiple swede midge infestations at different canola stages, and the resulting impacts on yield, are unknown. Laboratory experiments were conducted to evaluate the impact of single and multiple infestations of swede midge on four plant stages of canola: three-leaf, seven-leaf, primary bud, and secondary bud. Previously, the seven-leaf and primary bud stages were considered vulnerable to swede midge, but we determined that the secondary bud stage is also vulnerable. Evidence of compensation by canola in response to herbivory by swede midge was discovered. Compensation occurred mainly through increased production of tertiary racemes and pods and was maximized with exposure of 4.5-6.5 female midges per plant. Although compensation may increase potential yield, it also results in uneven crop maturation resulting in delayed harvest and yield loss. Consequently, to prevent delays in maturation and harvest, insecticides should be applied before these densities are reached.

Automated summary

The Swede midge is an invasive economic pest of canola that poses a threat to production in Canada. Laboratory experiments showed that canola can compensate for herbivory by increasing production of tertiary racemes and pods, but this may lead to uneven crop maturation, delayed harvest, and yield loss. Insecticides should be applied before certain densities of Swede midge are reached to prevent delays in maturation and harvest.