Thanks for tuning in to this episode of the Pests & Predators podcast! Host Shaun Haney is joined by Dr. Héctor Cárcamo, entomologist at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada at Lethbridge, to dig into beneficial insects and the use of Canada wasps to help control lygus bugs and reduce insecticide use.
In this episode, Cárcamo outlines the scale of lygus bug damage on the canola crop, and what scientists consider when deciding on introducing a biological control versus relying on native parasitoids to keep a pest in check. There are risks to consider when introducing an insect, including risks to non-target species and the uncertainty of biological introductions, he says.
Cárcamo also highlights how farmers can support beneficial insects and use economic thresholds to guide spraying decisions, and shares ideas for creatively managing lygus pressure without increasing insecticide reliance. Don’t miss Cárcamo’s perspective on why science sometimes involves “educated guesses” — and the tough conversations around balancing pest control with ecological stewardship.
The Pests and Predators Podcast is brought to you by Field Heroes, powered by the Western Grains Research Foundation. Visit fieldheroes.ca to learn how beneficial insects can benefit your farm.
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