Investment

Investment

GRDC Code: MAN2204-001SAX
NGN - Communication and extension of slug management in the Southern region
Slugs are the sixth most damaging invertebrate pest for the Australian grains industry, costing growers an average of $8.7 million annually (Murray, et al., 2013). Slugs are particularly damaging to establishing canola, with experiments demonstrating yield losses in untreated areas estimated to be at 60%-80% (DAS00134). The Southern National Grower Network (NGN) has reported that the frequency and level of damage caused by slugs has increased in recent years, causing damage specifically at the emergence and establishment phase to crops including faba beans, canola and wheat. The increase in slug numbers can be attributed to the adoption of stubble retention which provides an ideal environment for population reproduction and growth, reduced tillage and increase in area grown to canola. A higher than average rainfall is expected in the Southern HRZ as a result of La Nina this year providing further favourable conditions for slugs.
This investment will provide Growers impacted by slugs in the Southern Region with improved knowledge on management strategies as delivered through workshops and updated communication and extension material including a Factsheet, back pocket identification guide, podcast and webinar.
Twelve paddock-based training workshops will increase grower and agronomist's knowledge on slug species found in their areas, enhance understanding of slug population dynamics hence improve crop protection from slug threats. The delivery of hands on local training will provide practical management within the context of the slug threat. To support information delivered, an updated slug factsheet will be provided to growers at each workshops, along with an identification key of the pest species: that is an updated version of the back-pocket guide.
Project start date:
29/04/2022
Project end date:
31/03/2024
Crop type:
  • Wheat, (Cereal)
  • Faba/Broad Beans, (Legume)
  • Canola/Rapeseed, (Oilseed)
Organisation
Michael A Nash
Region:
South
Project status
status icon Completed

GRDC News

Podcasts

2023 Southern region slug update - GRDC
1686664800000

The southern region is experiencing its worst season of slug infestation. GRDC discusses with Tim Pohlner and Dr Michael Nash...

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Slug control across southern Australia - GRDC
1652796000000

As many southern growers know, good growing conditions for crops also means good ground conditions for slugs.

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Videos

Slug control 2024: Best management practices and the hunt for smarter controls

Slug control 2024: Best management practices and the hunt for smarter controls

1712062800000

Slugs have been a significant problem, particularly across the southern region. Good management practices will help keep numbers at bay, but planning is critical. GRDC...

Resources

Slug control -     GRDC

Slug control - GRDC

1732712400000 Factsheet MAN2204-001SAX

Slugs are an increasing threat to grain crops. They feed on crops, causing damage and yield loss. This fact sheet explains why an integrated control approach works best for slugs.

Slugs In Crops: The Back Pocket Guide -     GRDC

Slugs In Crops: The Back Pocket Guide - GRDC

1715608800000 Publication MAN2204-001SAX

Slugs have become an important pest group attacking Australian grain crops as farming practices have changed.