This work proposes to describe the approach for maintaining insect and plant colonies and preparation for agent release approval (exploring mass-rearing techniques, baseline characterization of the…

This Cooperative Agreement award from the U.S. Department of Agriculture's (USDA) Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) under the Plant and Animal Disease, Pest Control, and Animal Care program (CFDA 10.025) provides $111,088 to the Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services to support the biological control of the cactus moth. The award aims to describe the approach for maintaining insect and plant colonies and preparation for agent release approval, including exploring mass-rearing techniques, baseline characterization of the pest population, and development of release protocols. The performance period runs from Sep 1, 2024 to Aug 31, 2025. This federal grant funding allows the department to leverage its laboratories and expertise to contribute to the national effort in controlling this invasive agricultural pest.

This work proposes to describe the approach for maintaining insect and plant colonies and preparation for agent release approval (exploring mass-rearing techniques, baseline characterization of the pest population, development of release protocols) and the related roles and responsibilities of the parties as negotiated for the biological control of the cactus moth.