Integrated management of established grapevine phylloxera

Grapevine phylloxera is a major endemic biosecurity threat to the viticulture sector in Australia. Although historically limited in its distribution, phylloxera has increasing its geographic range in the last 15 years and poses a major threat to an industry that is still predominantly planting highly susceptible ungrafted European grapevines. This project will develop an improved integrated approach for managing endemic strains of grapevine phylloxera.

This will be achieved by:

1. developing improved quarantine protocols that include scientifically validating new and existing disinfestation treatments;
2. enhancing early detection systems through the development volatile markers for phylloxera and testing e-nose technology
3. providing region- and genotype-specific rootstock recommendations;
4. re-evaluating biocontrol options; and
5. addressing key knowledge gaps concerning the biology of endemic phylloxera strains.