Development of a Semiochemical-based Monitoring System for Diamondback Moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), in Canola in Alberta

Abstract

Studies focused on developing a semiochemical-based monitoring system for Plutella xylostella (L.) using sex pheromone and Z3-hexenyl acetate. A commercially available pheromone trapping system was used to capture male moths at sites in Alberta in 2007 and 2008. Larval sampling occurred every two weeks after the first males were captured. Male moth capture was predictive of larval density on individual sample dates during the growing season. The predictive capability of pheromone-baited trap capture was not in direct proportion to population density and was inconsistent. Modifications to the trapping system were tested to improve attractiveness. Adding Z3-hexenyl acetate at various doses to pheromone did not improve the attractiveness to males over pheromone alone and did not attract significant numbers of females when tested at various times during the flight season. Trap height and colour did not influence male capture. Pheromone dose and lure type did influence male moth capture in traps.