Inertni prahovi: alternativni pristop v varstvu rastlin pred koloradskim hroščem (Leptinotarsa decemlineata [Say, 1824], Coleoptera, Chrysomelidae)

In this article, we focused on an alternative approach of plant protection against the Colorado potato beetle (Leptinotarsa decemlineata), which is considered the most important pest of potatoes (Solanum tuberosum) in the world and also here in Slovenia. We decided to present the use of different inert dusts as a way of controlling the aforementioned pest. We focused on the categorization of powders, the presentation of individual groups of inert dusts and the description of one or more substances belonging to a specific group. In addition to a general presentation and the mode of action of specific inert dusts, we also provided practical examples that show whether the agent/substance has already been used against the Colorado potato beetle. With the aforementioned, we also tried to summarize whether the described substance has the potential to be used in practice or not. We would also like to point out that wood ash and diatomaceous earth are the most promising inert dusts against L. decemlineata. Wood ash is effective against larvae and to a lesser extent also against adults. Diatomaceous earth is also effective in reducing the number of pests on potato plants. Other inert dusts mentioned in scientific literature are probably less effective or have not even been tested or used against this pest yet. Further research, both under laboratory conditions and outdoors, are necessary to definitively determine the effectiveness of this selected inert dusts.