P.PSH.1276 - Feed through larvicide for control of buffalo fly in Australia
Buffalo fly (BF), through loss of production, cost of treatment and prevention, cost the Australian beef supply chain nearly $100M per year and is the third most costly endemic disease affecting cattle.
| Project start date: | 20 December 2020 |
| Project end date: | 14 August 2023 |
| Publication date: | 23 April 2024 |
| Project status: | Completed |
| Relevant regions: | National |
Summary
This project, conducted by Wellmark International (Australia) Pty Ltd, aimed test the impact of diflubenzuron on endemic Australian dung beetle species and measure the efficacy of diflubenzuron, used in feed-through systems as a viable control for Buffalo Fly in Australia under extensive grazing conditions.
Objectives
Measure of the impact of diflubenzuron on endemic Australian dung beetle species.
· Measure the efficacy of diflubenzuron feed-through as a viable control for Buffalo Fly in Australia under extensive grazing conditions.
· Measure the efficacy of a diflubenzuron feed-through as a viable control for multiple dung breeding fly species in an Australian beef cattle feedlot.
Key findings
Results from study one confirmed that diflubenzuron inhibited emergence at high levels. The second study indicated the proposed dose rate for commercial products has no impact on emergence of O. alexis. Preliminary data for E. intermedius showed no impact while a reduction in emergence was observed for O. gazella but cannot be verified due to an incomplete dataset. The ivermectin control killed all adult beetles and the acetone solvent significantly reduced emergence.
Benefits to industry
There are no benefits to industry at this stage due to high efficacy and potency towards all species of flies but was harmful to beneficial insects such as dung beetles.
MLA action
Investment in further novel research to control buffalo fly is warranted.
Future research
Continuing to explore novel methods of buffalo fly control while not being harmful to beneficial insects such as dung beetles.
More information
| Project manager: | Sharon Dundon |
| Contact email: | reports@mla.com.au |
| Primary researcher: | Wellmark International (Australia) |
