Pg. 38-40 Evaluating seven pheromone compounds for attracting Litchi Fruit Moth (Cryptophlebia peltastica) on Hamawasha Farm in Tzaneen, South Africa

The field trial was conducted to compare products from different manufacturers as well as different compositions of pheromone to attract male Litchi Fruit Moths (Cryptophlebia peltastica) in litchi orchards in South Africa. The trial took place during the 2004 litchi production season. Male Litchi Fruit Moths were successfully caught throughout the trial. The pheromone that clearly attracted the most male moths contained 95% Z-8:5% E-8 pheromone compound.

Summary:

• The field trial compared seven different pheromone mixtures from various manufacturers to attract male Litchi Fruit Moths (Cryptophlebia peltastica) in a litchi orchard in Tzaneen during the 2004 season.
• Male moths were successfully caught throughout the 77-day trial using Yellow Delta Traps baited with different pheromone lures rotated weekly to avoid positional bias.
• The pheromone blend containing 95% Z8-12AC and 5% E8-12AC attracted the highest number of male moths, outperforming all other tested compounds in total moth catch and consistency.
• Other formulations attracted moths but in significantly lower numbers and less consistently, highlighting that small changes in pheromone composition greatly affect moth attraction.
• The trial confirmed the specificity of the 95 Z8-12AC and 5 E8-12AC pheromone combination as the optimal lure for monitoring male Litchi Fruit Moth populations in South African litchi orchards.
• The Yellow Delta Trap combined with this pheromone lure is recommended for effective and efficient monitoring to support pest management decisions for this economically important pest.
• The study highlights the importance of using species-specific pheromone blends in pest monitoring and control strategies for better targeting and reducing chemical use.