Welcome to a special Halloween edition of Cereal Killers, the podcast dedicated to the pests and diseases affecting cereal crops. In this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of the ghost moth, scientifically known as Hepialis humuli.

Discover the intriguing history and biology of this moth, from its misleading scientific name to its unique mating dance known as "lekking." Learn about the ghost moth's lifecycle, its impact on various crops, and its fascinating relationship with bats.

Join us as we explore the ghost moth's ability to adapt and survive, despite its lack of traditional senses like hearing and taste. Uncover the reasons behind its peculiar strategies and how they help it thrive in the wild.

Don't miss out on this spooky and educational episode that offers a special Halloween treat for our listeners.

Happy Halloween!

Dr Russell Sharp

https://eutrema.co.uk/

In this episode of Cereal Killers we focus on the notorious Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus (BYDV). As farmers brace themselves for the upcoming season, we explore the impact of this virus on winter wheat and barley, where it can lead to staggering yield losses of up to 60% and 50% respectively.

Join us as Russell discusses the intricacies of controlling BYDV, including the role of aphids as vectors, and the importance of timely aphid control measures. We cover a variety of strategies, from insecticide applications to innovative farming practices like direct drilling and the use of BYDV-tolerant crop varieties. Additionally, we touch on the complexities of the virus's science and explore the promising developments in black grass pathogenic spore trials.

Whether you're a seasoned agronomist or a curious listener, this episode provides valuable insights into managing one of the most serious threats to cereal crops. Tune in and discover how you can stay ahead of the curve in combating BYDV.

eutrema.co.uk

In this episode, Josie and Russell dive deep into the world of the small but mighty flea beetle, a pest with over 100 species that wreaks havoc on crops like oilseed rape and brassicas.

Learn about the life cycle of these beetles, their impressive jumping abilities, and the significant impact they have on crop yields. Discover the challenges of controlling flea beetles, from insecticides to innovative methods like companion planting and trap crops. Josie also shares fascinating insights on how scientists are studying flea beetles to inspire advancements in robotics and engineering.

Don't miss this engaging and informative episode, filled with interesting facts, practical advice, and a few light-hearted moments. Whether you're a farmer, gardener, or just curious about these tiny pests, there's something here for everyone.

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