Research seeks to expand control of the woolly aphid

The woolly aphid (Erosoma lanigerum) is among the main pests of apple trees and continues to be a challenge for producers. The insect produces a white secretion similar to wool or cotton, which protects the colonies and hinders the action of insecticides. As a consequence, infestations persist in orchards, compromising plant vigor, productivity, and fruit quality.

To increase the efficiency of pest control, the Agricultural Research and Rural Extension Company of Santa Catarina (Epagri) initiated a research project at the Caçador Experimental Station (SC), a national reference in apple tree genetic improvement. Coordinated by researcher and entomologist Janaína Pereira dos Santos, the study evaluates chemical and biological alternatives to define more effective, sustainable, and economically viable management strategies.

Funded by the Santa Catarina State Research and Innovation Support Foundation (Fapesc), the research is expected to be completed in November 2027. Expected results include the development of a specific methodology to evaluate the effectiveness of insecticides and the creation of recommendations for more rational use of these products, avoiding waste and reducing costs.

The study also aims to validate chemical and biological control strategies for the main apple production systems — conventional, integrated, and organic — considering their economic and environmental impacts. "We want to generate reliable data to support practical recommendations for producers in different production systems," says Janaína.

In total, nine insecticides, both chemical and biological, are being evaluated in experiments conducted in both greenhouses and field conditions. The tests include the analysis of already registered products and new alternatives for pest management.

Alternatives for organic production

Among the focuses of the study are biological insecticides intended for organic orchards. According to Janaína, controlling woolly aphids is even more challenging in this system due to the scarcity of efficient products that are registered and compatible with the requirements of organic production.

The researcher points out that making new control tools available can expand producers' access to markets that demand food produced without the use of synthetic pesticides.

Furthermore, biological solutions tend to especially benefit small and medium-sized producers, who frequently seek certifications and higher value-added market niches. Another expected benefit is the reduction of rural workers' exposure to more toxic products, as well as the risks of soil, water, and air contamination.

Cost reduction and increased competitiveness

Another objective of the research is to contribute to reducing apple production costs. By identifying more efficient products and management strategies, researchers seek to avoid expenses on treatments with low efficacy and promote a more rational use of inputs.

“We are generating knowledge to develop integrated management practices that combine efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and lower environmental impact. The goal is to increase the competitiveness of the productive sector, strengthening Santa Catarina's position as a national leader in apple production, with higher quality fruit and greater added value in the national and international markets,” concludes the researcher.