Control of the Periodical Cicada in Eastern New York During 197912

Abstract

Fifteen insecticides were evaluated for toxicity to adults of Magicicada septendecim (L.) in the laboratory. Methomyl, oxamyl, carbofuran, fenvalerate, permethrin, and amitraz gave quick knockdown and immobilization within 3 h of treatment. Methiocarb and the standard, carbaryl, also were effective but slower in action. Residual activity was greatest with fenvalerate and carbofuran. Cicadas immobilized by the carbamates usually died within 12–24 h following treatment, whereas those treated with the synethetic pyrethroids or amitraz remained alive but immobile throughout the observation periods. Field tests demonstrated methomyl, oxamyl, carbofuran, and fenvalerate to be effective mortality agents, especially against emerging cicada populations. Against mobile ovipositing female cicadas, fen valerate also functioned effectively as a repellent. Significancly more limb breakage on apple trees caused by cicada oviposition was found on ‘Cortland’ and ‘McIntosh’ cultivars and was attributed to greater vegetative growth relative to other cultivars.