Effects of Low Doses of a Novel dsRNA-based Biopesticide (Calantha) on the Colorado Potato Beetle.

The Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is a destructive pest of the cultivated potato, Solanum tuberosum. Members of this species are well-suited to agricultural habitats because of a suite of physiological adaptations and their ability to evolve resistance to multiple insecticides. Recently, a novel double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) insecticide (Calantha, active ingredient ledprona) has been demonstrated as an effective tool to manage Colorado potato beetle populations through RNA interference (RNAi).

Toxicity of a novel dsRNA-based insecticide to the Colorado potato beetle in laboratory and field trials.

Background: The Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) is one of the most notorious pests of the potato, Solanum tuberosum. Potato beetles are capable of developing resistance to various insecticides in relatively few generations. Novel and effective means of controlling Colorado potato beetle populations are constantly required to protect potato crops and prevent loss of yield.