Black foot in vineyards new zealand fact sheet

Here's a fact sheet on Black Foot in vineyards in New Zealand:

What is Black Foot?

Black Foot (Phylloxera ampelopsifoliae) is a pest that attacks grapevines, causing significant damage to the plant. It is a type of aphid that is native to New Zealand and is found in many vineyards throughout the country.

Symptoms of Black Foot Infestation

• Black Foot aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of grapevines.
• They can cause curled or distorted leaves, stunted growth, and reduced yields.
• Infested vines may also produce clusters of small, immature grapes.
• Black Foot can also transmit plant viruses, such as Grapevine Fanleaf Virus (GFLV) and Grapevine Leafroll Associated Virus (GLRaV).

How Black Foot Spreads

• Black Foot aphids can spread through vineyard blocks by walking or flying from plant to plant.
• They can also be spread through contaminated soil, water, or equipment.
• Black Foot can also be introduced to new areas through the movement of infested grapevine material, such as cuttings or nursery stock.

Management and Control

• Monitoring: Regularly inspect vineyards for signs of Black Foot infestation, such as curled or distorted leaves, stunted growth, and reduced yields.
• Cultural Controls: Maintain good vineyard hygiene, remove weeds, and ensure good air circulation to reduce the risk of infestation.
• Chemical Controls: Use insecticides, such as pyrethroids or neonicotinoids, to control Black Foot populations.
• Biological Controls: Introduce natural predators, such as lady beetles or lacewings, to control Black Foot populations.
• Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Use a combination of cultural, chemical, and biological controls to manage Black Foot populations.

Economic Impact

• Black Foot infestations can significantly reduce grape yields and quality, leading to economic losses for grape growers.
• The pest can also impact the wine industry by reducing the availability of high-quality grapes for winemaking.

Research and Development

• Scientists at Plant & Food Research, a leading research organization in New Zealand, are working to develop new methods for controlling Black Foot populations.
• Researchers are also studying the biology and ecology of Black Foot to better understand its behavior and develop more effective management strategies.

Resources

• Plant & Food Research: www.plantandfood.co.nz
• New Zealand Wine Institute: www.nzwine.com
• Ministry for Primary Industries: www.mpi.govt.nz

I hope this fact sheet provides a good overview of Black Foot in vineyards in New Zealand. Let me know if you have any further questions!