Suppression of the Codling Moth (Lepidoptera: Olethreutidae) with the Entomogenous Nematode, Steinernema feltiae (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae)

Abstract

The entomogenous nematode, Steinernema feltiae Filipjev, was applied to overwintering codling moth Cydia pomonella (L.) prepupae that occurred in corrugated paper bands placed around apple tree trunks. Nematode applications made in October resulted in a total codling moth mortality of 80% (62% infected with nematodes) whereas July applications resulted in a total mortality of 32% (23% infected with nematodes). February applications provided the best results with 95% total mortality (58–73% infected with nematodes). The bands remained moist from rainfall during February, which enhanced nematode survival. Although the average daily low temperature was 4.8°C and the average daily high was 18.0°C during the February treatments, these temperatures did not affect prepupal infection by the nematode. A comparison of nematode survival in corrugated cardboard bands, burlap lined with Pelion fleece, and nylon pack cloth lined with Pelion fleece showed that survival in corrugated cardboard bands was less than 4 days, in nylon pack cloth lined with Pelion fleece 23 days, and in burlap lined with Pelion fleece, 21 days.