Wheat midge (Jun 14, 2018; Wk 06)

Wheat Midge (Sitodiplosis mosellana) – Simulation modelling is used to predict wheat midge emergence across the Canadian prairies.  The wheat midge model indicates that wheat midge larvae should be moving to the soil surface (Fig. 1). Adequate moisture has resulted in expected emergence patterns. 

Figure 1.  Predicted wheat midge phenology at Saskatoon SK.
Values are based on model simulations, for April 1 – June 11, 2018 (projected to July 15, 2018). 

The 2018 wheat midge forecast map was circulated in January and is posted below for reference.  Note that areas highlighted orange or red in the map below included surveyed fields with comparatively higher densities of wheat midge cocoons last fall.

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.  Additionally, more information 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.