Simulation modelling is used to predict wheat midge emergence across the Canadian prairies. The model predicted that wheat midge adults should emerge in July. The following graphs indicate that adult emergence at Saskatoon (Fig. 1) could be two weeks later than at Melfort (Fig. 2). Though average temperatures have been similar for both locations, model output indicates that dry conditions at Saskatoon (6 mm since June 1) may result in delayed emergence. Adequate moisture at Melfort (20 mm since June 1) has resulted in expected emergence patterns. Predicted rainfall for this week should result in emergence patterns that are more typical.
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| Figure 1. Predicted wheat midge development at Saskatoon SK. |
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| Figure 2. Predicted wheat midge development at Melfort SK. |
As a refresher, the 2017 wheat midge forecast map circulated in January can be accessed at our Risk and Forecast Maps Post. Information related to wheat midge biology and monitoring can be accessed by linking to your provincial fact sheet (Saskatchewan Agriculture or Alberta Agriculture & Forestry). A review of wheat midge on the Canadian prairies was published by Elliott, Olfert, and Hartley in 2011.
More information about Wheat midge can be found by accessing the pages from the new "Field Crop and Forage Pests and their Natural Enemies in Western Canada: Identification and Field Guide". View ONLY the Wheat midge pages but remember the guide is available as a free downloadable document as both an English-enhanced or French-enhanced version.
