The State - News from July 1, 1987

Heavy pesticide spraying has not been able to control an onslaught of cotton aphids, but a tiny parasitic wasp might do the trick, an entomologist said in Bakersfield. Walt Bentley said the tide of tiny insects that suck the juices of life from cotton plants has not been deterred by pesticide spraying. The University of California researcher suggested setting aside crop dusters and giving a parasitic wasp a chance to build up and control the aphids. The infestation is “something I haven’t seen before” and could threaten what otherwise is shaping up to be an excellent crop, Bentley said. “I want to see these biologicals take hold before we resort to (stronger) chemicals. . . . If you can’t get control and you’ve tried twice with chemicals, don’t beat a dead horse.” Bentley traces the pest outbreak to an imbalance caused by last year’s heavy insect infestations and resulting pesticide use.