Allen E. Knutson

Texas Cooperative Extension

Professor and Extension Entomologist

Ph.D. Entomology, Texas A&M University
M.S. Entomology, University of Florida
B.S. Biology, University of Minnesota

Insect Science/Entomology - Extension (25%) Research (75%)

Highlighted Projects:

Biological Control of Cotton Insect Pests.. Cotton producers rely on many naturally-occurring beneficial insects to help battle cotton insect pests. To assist growers in recognizing them, Dr. Knutson co-authored a field guide titled Recognizing the Good Bugs in Cotton. A simple, yet efficient, sampling method was developed to help cotton producers determine how many and what kinds of good bugs were present in their fields, and anticipate how effectively natural enemies will control bollworms and budworms. Studies also evaluated new and safer insecticides that are more selective for good bugs, unlike the older, broad-spectrum insecticides which killed beneficial and pests alike.

Sex Pheromone Fools Pecan Insect Pest. The unique "perfume" used by the female moth to attract the male moth is being used to trap the pecan nut casebearer, one of Texas' most destructive pecan insect pests. Research conducted by Dr. Knutson and colleagues at the University of California identified the chemical structure of the sex pheromone of this pest moth. It is now commercially available for use by pecan producers as an early warning that casebearer are active in the orchard. By monitoring moth flights with pheromone traps, pecan producers better determine if and when treatment is needed, reducing unnecessary insecticide use. Research is now underway to use the pheromone to control the pecan nut casebearer by confusing male moths and disrupting mating.

Primary Research and Extension Emphasis:

Develop educational materials and programs on integrated pest management (IPM) of insect pests of cotton, wheat, sorghum, pecans, corn and other crops. Support count extension agents with educational programs in IPM. Serve as statewide coordinator for biological control programs for Extension entomology faculty; develop cooperative programs on biological control and educational materials. Applied research projects include developing a pheromone monitoring system for the pecan nut casebearer, conservation of natural enemies for insect pest control in cotton and biological control of saltcedar using exotic insect herbivores.

Experience:

Professor and Extension Entomologist, Extension District 4, Dallas. Texas Cooperative Extension, 1989-present. County Extension Agent-Entomologist, Castro/Lamb Counties, Texas. Texas Agricultural Extension Service, 1980-1989.

Honors and Awards:

Distinguished Achievement Award in Extension Entomology, Entomological Society of America, 1998. Vice Chancellor's Award in Excellence, Texas A&M College of Agriculture, 1998. Clean Texas 2000 Governor's Award for Environmental Excellence, 1995. Deputy Chancellor' Award in Excellence, Texas A&M, 1992. Superior Service Award, Texas Agricultural Extension Service, 1988. Outstanding Entomologist, West TX/NM Chapter, American Registry of Professional Entomologists, 1988.