Use of synthetic pheromone traps to time control of the lucerne leafroller, Merophyas divulsana

Abstract

AbstractCatches of male Merophyas divulsana (Walker) (Lepidoptera:Tortricidae) in pheromone traps showed seven peaks per year in lucerne (Medicago sativa L.) between September and April at approximately five week intervals. The trap catches can be used to predict the occurrence of specific stages of the life cycle and periods of damage. By using trap catches to time both harvesting and the application of insecticide, damage to a lucerne crop was reduced. Harvesting was considered to be the more acceptable control strategy.