This project aims to aid the vegetable industry in the transition into more sustainable and predictive approaches for the management of vectors, through innovative solutions that will minimise pest outbreaks, decrease virus transmission, improve chemical stewardship, and better utilise beneficial organisms. The research targets for this investment aim to inform the development of innovative resources and tools for vegetable growers to be delivered via a dedicated extension and communication.

The specific aims of this investment include the following objectives:

• Identify key vectors and develop tools for monitoring and tracking virus transmission in vegetable crops.
• Develop management systems that can be used to drive sustainable and predictive vector population management.
• Develop predictive frameworks that allow growers to make decisions that appraise the impacts of both insecticides and beneficials.
• Develop grower tools and deliver resources to simplify pest management decisions and reduce industry reliance on insecticides.

This project has been funded by Hort Innovation, using the research and development levies listed below and contributions from the Australian Government. Hort Innovation is the grower-owned, not-for-profit research and development corporation for Australian horticulture.

• Vegetable Fund