Evaluation of resistance of selected strawberry cultivars to Rhynchites germanicus Herbst and Anthonomus rubi Herbst (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Veselka Antonova, Elena Tsolova

Abstract: The investigation was carried out during the 2012-2013 period in the experimental field of the Institute of Agriculture, Kyustendil. The aim of the study was to assess the resistance of selected strawberry cultivars to the strawberry rhynchites (Rhynchites germanicus Herbst) and the strawberry blossom weevil (Anthonomus rubi Herbst). Two-year results of testing of introduced cultivars for resistance to Rhynchites germanicus and Anthonomus rubi are presented in this paper. In the study, the following 11 cultivars (Maya, Camino Real, Elegance, Serenity, Fenella, Onda, Selva, Ventana, Diamante, Gaviota, Tethis) and one standard cultivar Redgauntlet were included. As a result of the received data it is established that cultivars Tethis, Maya and Diamante were characterized by high resistance to Rhynchites germanicus. Elegance and Serenity were strongly attacked. Serenity, Gaviota, Tethis and Maya were resistant to Anthonomus rubi. The degree of damage caused by both insect pests greatly varies by year and by cultivar. The best strawberry cultivars were selected which can be successfully grown under the conditions of integrated and organic production of strawberries.

Keywords: resistance; severity of damage; strawberry blossom weevil; strawberry cultivars; strawberry rhynchites

Date published: 2017-03-01