Quinoa, Chenopodium quinoa, Provides a New Host for Native Herbivores in Northern Europe: Case Studies of the Moth, Scrobipalpa atriplicella, and the Tortoise Beetle, Cassida nebulosa
2008
Quinoa as a New Host for Native Insects in Northern Europe
Sample size: 100
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Sigsgaard Lene, Jacobsen Sven Erik, Christiansen Jørgen Lindskrog
Primary Institution: University of Copenhagen
Hypothesis
Can native herbivores adapt to quinoa as a new host in Northern Europe?
Conclusion
Native herbivores are beginning to adapt to quinoa, leading to pest issues in Northern Europe.
Supporting Evidence
- This is the first published record of Scrobipalpa atriplicella and Cassida nebulosa on quinoa.
- Quinoa has been grown experimentally in Denmark for over ten years.
- Prior to 2005, no major insect pest problems were observed in quinoa.
Takeaway
Quinoa is a new crop in Northern Europe, and local bugs are starting to eat it, which could be a problem for farmers.
Methodology
Infested quinoa plants were collected and reared in controlled conditions to observe pest behavior.
Limitations
The study is based on observations from specific locations and may not represent all regions.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website