The cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera is a major pest of grain crops and represents a significant challenge for the Australian grains industry given the ongoing reliance on chemical control methods. H. armigera reduces yield of pulses, oilseeds, coarse grains and occasionally winter cereals. To further enhance Helicoverpa resistance management in grains, a resistance management strategy (RMS) for H. armigera specifically designed for pulse crops was released in April 2018.

Resistance surveillance is a key component of the RMS and this project will provide the information critical for evaluating the effectiveness of this strategy. It will also provide an evidence-based platform for review and revision of the RMS in response to quantitative shifts in resistance frequency. This work will support growers and advisers in making informed management decisions to protect the longevity of important insecticides in grains production.