Lure Specificity, Timing, and Damage by Epiphyas Moths in Apple Orchards

Jenn Hoskins
26th July, 2024

Lure Specificity, Timing, and Damage by Epiphyas Moths in Apple Orchards

Image Source: Natural Science News, 2024

Key Findings

  • The study took place in southwestern Western Australia, focusing on three Epiphyas species in key apple-growing areas
  • LBAM was found only in the Perth Hills, while E. pulla was detected in apple orchards near Manjimup and Pemberton
  • The lures were effective for LBAM and E. pulla but not for the undescribed Epiphyas sp. (1), indicating a need for further refinement
The light brown apple moth (LBAM), Epiphyas postvittana, is a significant pest affecting various crops globally. A recent study by the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO)[1] aimed to evaluate the efficacy and specificity of lures for three Epiphyas species in southwestern Western Australia. This study is crucial as it helps in understanding the distribution and impact of these pests, particularly in significant apple-growing regions. The study focused on three species: LBAM, Epiphyas pulla, and an undescribed species, Epiphyas sp. (1). Researchers used trapping combined with partial sequencing of the mitochondrial COI gene to determine the presence and distribution of these species in three key apple-growing localities. The findings revealed that LBAM was confined to the Perth Hills, while E. pulla was found in apple orchards near Manjimup and Pemberton. Interestingly, Epiphyas sp. (1) was not detected despite using a specifically designed lure for it. The efficacy of the lures for LBAM and E. pulla was notable, as they successfully captured their target species. However, the traps for Epiphyas sp. (1) did not show a significant difference in catch rates, indicating a need for further refinement of the lure. The study also observed that both LBAM and E. pulla had peak abundances from late spring to the end of summer, with variations depending on the species, location, and year. These findings build on previous research that highlighted the challenges and complexities of managing LBAM infestations. For instance, a 2013 article by Carey and Harder criticized the LBAM eradication program initiated by the USDA, which was eventually deemed unnecessary and costly[2]. The recent CSIRO study offers a more targeted approach by focusing on the specific presence and distribution of these pests, thereby avoiding the pitfalls of overgeneralization and unnecessary eradication efforts. Further, the study aligns with earlier research on the composition of the LBAM sex pheromone gland, which identified additional compounds that could enhance pheromone-based detection and control methods[3]. By using effective lures, the CSIRO study contributes to more accurate monitoring and potentially better management of these pests in apple orchards. The research also underscores the importance of pheromone-based mating disruption technology in urban environments, as previously demonstrated in studies conducted in Perth, Australia[4]. Such technologies are essential for reducing the mating success of pests like LBAM, thereby controlling their populations in a benign and environmentally friendly manner. In conclusion, the CSIRO study provides valuable insights into the distribution and monitoring of Epiphyas species in key apple-growing areas of Western Australia. The effective lures for LBAM and E. pulla, combined with the genetic identification of trapped specimens, offer a promising approach to managing these pests without causing significant damage to mature apples. This research not only advances our understanding of these pests but also builds on previous studies to offer more refined and effective pest management strategies.

AgricultureEnvironmentAnimal Science

References

Main Study

1) Lure specificity, phenology, and damage caused by Epiphyas moths (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) in Western Australian apple orchards.

Published 24th July, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1093/jee/toae162

Related Studies

2) Failure by design: lessons from the recently rescinded light brown apple moth (Epiphyas postvittana) eradication program in California.

https://doi.org/10.1002/ps.7246

3) New sex pheromone blend for the lightbrown apple moth, Epiphyas postvittana.

https://doi.org/10.1007/s10886-011-9964-x

4) Feasibility of Mating Disruption for Agricultural Pest Eradication in an Urban Environment: Light Brown Apple Moth (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) in Perth.

https://doi.org/10.1093/jee/tov142


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