Detection of Swede Midge in Western New York Crucifer Fields

Abstract

The swede midge (Contarinia nasturtii) is a tiny insect whose larvae feed on and destroy the growing tips of cruciferous plants such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. The pest was not known in North America until it was identified in Ontario, Canada in 2000. A 2002 survey conducted by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), confirmed the presence of swede midge in eight Ontario counties, where it has caused serious losses in crop yield and marketability. Neighboring New York State leads the United States in cabbage production with a crop valued at $87 million per year that could be at risk should swede midge infestation occur. There was a need to educate the NY agricultural industry about this potential pest and to determine its presence in NYS.