DYNAMICS AND CONTROL OF CHAETOCNEMA TIBIALIS POPULATION IN SUGAR BEET UNDER CLIMATIC AND AGRONOMIC CONDITIONS IN THE BRAȘOV DEPRESSION

Rezumat

This study was carried out during 2024-2025 at NIRDPSB Brasov to evaluate the attack of Chaetocnema tibialis on eight sugar beet hybrids and the efficacy of insecticide treatments under field conditions. The results showed clear differences in infestation depending on the year, assessment date and hybrid. In 2024, the attack was higher during the early growing period, whereas in 2025 infestation increased markedly in June, followed by a decline toward the end of the season. However, flea beetle activity remained present even in late August. The insecticides Decis Expert 100 EC, Vantex and Faster Gold 50 EC were effective immediately after application, significantly reducing pest density. Subsequent evaluations at 3, 7 and 14 days after treatment indicated a gradual decrease in residual efficacy. Differences among hybrids suggest a differentiated response in relation to both initial infestation and reinfestation dynamics. The results highlight the importance of continuous monitoring and timely crop protection measures in sugar beet