Tender trap set for pests in quest for new defences

Scientists are turning to sex as a weapon in the war against pests which damage millions of pounds worth of fruit and vegetable crops.

The government has approved a #1million package of new research projects aimed at finding more natural alternatives to chemical pesticides for farmers and growers.

Researchers in one project will target the apple leaf midge, a widespread pest which attacks orchards and nurseries, by designing traps containing female midge pheromones - substances given off to attract the opposite sex.

This will lure male midges to a sticky end so that growers get an early warning of an impending invasion and can take measures to protect their apples.

Other projects include a study to combat clubroot, a disease which ruins plants like turnips, brussels sprouts and oilseed rape and costs industry around #30million a year in lost crops.

Lettuces, cabbages, leeks, blackcurrants and herbs are among the other crops which scientists hope to protect through new alternative pesticides and defence mechanisms which involve using natural enemies of particular pests and biological controls.

Food and Farming Minister Lord Whitty said:

"Reducing reliance on pesticides is a priority, and we want to find alternative, more environment-friendly pest controls for farmers and growers.

"Science is important to improving the performance of our horticulture and agriculture industries, and the results of this new research should give them a competitive advantage and save valuable crops."

All the research is backed by money from the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra), with some financial support from industry. Defra spends almost #13million a year on research into alternative pesticide and plant protection.

Details of the six projects, chosen from a range of bids, are attached. Further information is available online at www.defra.gov.uk.