Evaluation of Survey Trapping Techniques for Potato Tuberworm Moths with Chemical Baited Traps1

Abstract

Two trap designs, 2 bait dispensers, and 8 synthetic tridecen-, and tridecadien-l-ol acetate isomers or mixtures were evaluated for survey trapping of adult moths of Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller). Of the trapping techniques tested, highest moth catches were obtained with a water pan trap baited with a rubber cap impregnated with 300 μg of t-4, c-7-C13OAc. Similarly baited Pherocon® IC sticky traps caught fewer moths under conditions of high infestation because their sticky surfaces tended to become saturated with moths. The handling characteristics and longevity of the rubber cap made it more suitable than a solution wick for dispensing attractants. None of the δ-7- or δ-7,11-C13OAc isomers rivaled t-4, c-7-C13OAc in attractant potency, though c-7- and c-7, t-11-C13OAc possess some minor attractant activity. Furthermore, δ-7,11-C13-OAc isomers were not found in extracts of female potato tuberworms.