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First Japan Super Science Fair Development of Eco-Safe Insect Control Methods for Weevil Pests on Guam  Daniel S. Creppel1 and Gadi V. P. Reddy2  1St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic High School, P.O. Box AC, Hagatna, Guam 96932, USA, Email: This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it 2Western Pacific Tropical Research Center, University of Guam, Mangilao, Guam 96923, USA  Abstract: The New Guinea Sugarcane Weevil Rhabdocelus obscurus (Boisduval) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) attacks sugarcane, coconut, betel nut, and ornamental nurseries. The banana root borer Cosmopolites sordidus (Germar) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) is one of the main pests of banana plantations in Micronesia and throughout the world. Currently, these weevils pose a serious threat to ornamental palms in the nursery industry, as well as the betel nut and banana production on Guam. Farmers, homeowners, and commercial firms on Guam apply costly insecticides (Dimethoate, Acephate, Carbaryl, Malathion) associated with ecological and toxicological hazards.  The objective of this experiment is to evaluate in a laboratory, several locally available plant-based chemicals and oils against two weevil pests to replace the toxic insecticides currently being used for cost effective methods and to safeguard the environment.  The results indicated that, Neem and Volck Oil Spray caused 100% mortality after three days of the treatment. All the weevils died after 8-10 days after the treatment with the BotaniGard. On the other hand, EcoSmart Spray, control treatment with water and no water spray did not affect the weevils.  The findings from the present study provide eco friendly alternatives to the growers and homeowners to use for the control of the New Guinea sugarcane weevil and banana root borer to eliminate the toxic insecticide application for these important borer pests.  Ritsumeikan Super Science Fair 2010 Date: Nov. 1 – Nov. 5, 2010 Abstract: Soil erosion is an environmental and economic concern for the Island of Guam. Once the soil is exposed, sediments are transported by rain to the ocean floor and layers of soil sediments suffocate and eventually kill corals. This causes a disruption of the food chain and has a negative effect on marine life. Several factors contribute to soil erosion, such as arson, deforestation, commercial development and construction, and off road vehicles. This study is intended to evaluate the impact of off road vehicles on sedimentation which poses a life threat to the fragile coral reef. Snorkeling and diving are important activities for the tourism industry, and the destruction of the coral reef will not only impact tourism, but will also disrupt the food chain. The objectives of this study were: (1) to bring awareness to the impact of off road vehicles on sedimentation among off road hobbyists and the general population; (2) to estimate the impact of soil erosion due to off road vehicles; (3) to measure sedimentation as a result of off road vehicle practice. Survey questionnaires, water sample analysis and photographs indicated a threat of off road vehicles by sedimentation. Raising awareness with proof of scientific data among the general population and specifically among off road hobbyists should be a priority to reduce human impact on sedimentation. STA Science Fair  Global Issues Conference: |
