Tullbergia krausbaueri (Börner) its interaction in agriculture: the biology, taxonomy and interaction with Beta vulgaris and gamma-benzene hexachloride and the development of a pest–crop–pesticide model

The association between a monoculture crop, an established pest and a means of chemical pest control is an important consideration in modern agriculture. Collembola, in particular the Onychluridae Tullbergia krausbaueri and Onychlurus armatus, have been associated with the cultivation of sugar beet (Beta vulgaris) since 1958 (Jones and Dunning, 1972). Since the 1960's, pests of sugar beet have been controlled with gamma-benzene hexachloride (BHC). Although the association between sugar beet, Collembola and BHC has been established for some time, the specific interactions have not been evaluated by laboratory methods. The aims of this study were to clarify the plant, pest and pesticide interactions and to develop mathematical models to assist in control of the pest. [Continues.]