Horticultural pest and diseases
By Denis Crawford
Insects that have life cycles of complete metamorphosis have larvae that come in a variety of forms.
A life cycle of complete metamorphosis (holometabolous) means hatching from an egg into a larval stage, then pupating, and later emerging as an adult.… Continue reading
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Many insects are instantly recognisable but what do you do when you find an insect you’ve never seen before?
If I described an insect as having a triangular head with large eyes, spindly hind legs and grasping raptorial forelegs, I reckon most of you would have an image of a praying mantis in mind.… Continue reading
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By Denis Crawford
Many ants are beneficial, but some ant species can be pests in some situations. When is that?
This Pest Files is inspired by some recent encounters I had with ants. In late January 2023 I noticed several species of ants climbing the trunk of a young roadside gumtree (Eucalyptus obliqua).… Continue reading
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By Denis Crawford
Biological control may not be an instant pest solution, but it is a pest control option well worth pursuing.
Large parts of eastern Australia have just been through a very wet spring and early summer. That period of warm wet weather meant a boom time for mosquitoes, they were everywhere in huge numbers.… Continue reading
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