Predicted Mortality Of Bean Leaf Beetle Is Low

Apr 07, 2016

By Erin Hodgson

Bean leaf beetle adults are susceptible to cold weather and most will die when the air temperature falls below 14°F (-10°C). However, they have adapted to winter by protecting themselves under plant debris and loose soil. An overwintering survival model developed at ISU in 2000 is helpful for predicting winter mortality based on accumulating subfreezing temperatures. Predicted mortality rates in Iowa were low during the 2015-2016 winter and ranged from 35-68%. This is a big contrast to the 2013-2014 winter, where most beetles were not predicted to survive.

2016 predicted mortality for bean leaf beetle

Figure 1. Predicted mortality for bean leaf beetle during the 2015-2016 winter.

Since 1989, we have predicted bean leaf beetle mortality at ISU. In central Iowa, the average mortality for over 25 years is 72%. If you like to plant soybean on the early side and had issues with overwintering beetles causing severe defoliation and/or vectoring bean pod mottle virus, I recommend scouting fields as plants emerge.

Figure 2. Predicted mortality for bean leaf beetle from 1989-2016.

Source: iastate.edu

Video: Why Port Infrastructure is Key to Growing Canada's Farms and Economy

Grain Farmers of Ontario (GFO) knows that strong, modern port infrastructure is vital to the success of Canada’s agriculture. When our ports grow, Ontario grain farmers and Canadian farms grow too—and when we grow, Canada grows.

In this video, we highlight the importance of investing in port infrastructure and how these investments are key to growing Ontario agriculture and supporting global trade. The footage showcases the strength of both Ontario’s farming landscapes and vital port operations, including some key visuals from HOPA Ports, which we are grateful to use in this project.

Ontario’s grain farmers rely on efficient, sustainable ports and seaway systems to move grain to markets around the world. Port investments are crucial to increasing market access, driving economic growth, and ensuring food security for all Canadians.

Why Port Infrastructure Matters:

Investing in Ports = Investing in Farms: Modernized ports support the export of Canadian grain, driving growth in agriculture.

Sustainable Growth: Learn how stronger ports reduce environmental impact while boosting economic stability.

Global Trade Opportunities: Improved port and seaway systems help farmers access new global markets for their grain.

Stronger Communities: Investment in ports means more stable jobs and economic growth for rural communities across Ontario and Canada.

We are proud to support the ongoing investment in port infrastructure and to shine a light on its vital role in feeding the world and securing a prosperous future for Canadian agriculture.

Special thanks to HOPA Ports for providing some of the stunning port footage featured in this video.