Wake-Up Call For Old World Bollworm

Aug 24, 2015

By Jim Steadman

USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) has confirmed that the Old World bollworm (OWB), an aggressive global pest, has been found in western coastal Florida.

According to APHIS, the pest – known officially as Helicoverpa armigera – is found in many countries around the world and, most recently, in Puerto Rico, Brazil and Argentina. It is considered a severe economic pest in most places where it occurs and can impact at least 180 species of plants, including cotton, vegetables, soybeans, tobacco, corn and other grain crops.

Nearly a third of global pesticide treatments in areas of infestation are aimed at controlling OWB, which has shown a history of developing resistance to insecticides and, potentially, some Bt proteins. APHIS has dedicated more than $1.2 million for OWB detection and control efforts in the U.S. in 2015.

OWB is related to the corn earworm/cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa zea), and the two are nearly identical in appearance. DNA analysis is needed to distinguish the larvae of each species.

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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.