Dr. Rebecca Hallett talks midges at Ontario Canola Growers meeting

Hallett discussed her Alliance-funded research that involves determining whether canola flower midge (CFM) migrated from the Prairies, or whether it is a native species that adapted to using canola as a host, and how the two midges interact.

Ontario is the only province that battles both swede midge and CFM. Worse yet, the two species may work together.

Her latest project, which began in 2023, seeks to differentiate the two midges’ symptoms, develop a larvae identification analytical genetic procedure, and assess differences in developmental timing, plant placement and impact. Pest management implications are also part of her study.

Read the article on Farmtario: Research suggests canola flower midge are native species