Mating disruption controls the cherry tree borer, Synanthedon hector (Butler) (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae), in a steep orchard of cherry trees

Abstract

Mating disruption of the cherry tree borer, Synanthedon hector (Butler), with synthetic sex attractant was conducted for 6 years to test the efficiency of the method to control the borer population on the slopes in the Cherry Tree Forest of Tama Forest Science Garden, Hachioji, Tokyo. No male adult moth has been captured in traps baited with the synthetic attractant since the commencement of the control. The incidence of attack decreased to a low level in the third year and has remained low thereafter, indicating the effectiveness of mating disruption in controlling the borer population.