ALTERNATIVE PEST MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS FOR VEGETABLE CROPS IN THE SOUTHERN PLAINS

The overall objective of this project is to develop novel basic and applied solutions within an integrated framework for reducing disease and insect losses in cucurbit (watermelon and melons) and other vegetable crops while producing safe, nutritious products for consumers. Specific objectives are: 1) Elucidate virulence parameters of selected pre- and postharvest pathogen populations, define the role of polygalacturonase-inhibiting protein (PGIP) as a plant pathogen defense mechanism, and use this information to develop integrated methodologies for increased control of cucurbit diseases; 2) Characterize the phloem-inhabiting bacterium (Serratia marcescens) and its relationship with the squash bug vector of cucurbit yellow vine disease (CYVD); 3) - Develop behavior-based alternative controls for insect vectors of CYVD and other key insect pests of vegetable crops; and 4) Identify diverse sources of cucurbit (watermelon) germplasm that confer disease and insect
resistance, and develop improved germplasm lines for release to the seed industry.