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Phenology models are widely used in Decision Support Systems to predict the phenology of pests. Grapholita molesta (Busck) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), a polyphagous pest, has a high prevalence in apple trees (Malus domestica Borkh.) (Rosales: Rosaceae) in certain areas, despite the fact that apple trees are considered secondary hosts. Its natural behavior of feeding inside plant tissue at the larval stage makes monitoring and planning methods of control critical for Integrated Pest Management. The development times and survival rates of two field populations of G. molesta larvae on apple cultivars 'Gala', 'Golden', and 'Fuji' were determined under different temperature (constant versus field fluctuation) and feeding conditions (diet versus apples attached to the tree and detached from the tree). The results showed that G. molesta fitness in apples is affected by fluctuating temperature regimes in the field, the condition of the fruit, whether or not the fruit is attached to the tree, and the cultivar. The temperature was the main cause of the differences in the studied parameters. Larvae developme–nt time was delayed due to fluctuating field temperatures. Larvae had a shorter development time in fruits detached from the tree compared to attached fruits, and apple cultivars influenced development time in both laboratory and field conditions, with the 'Golden' cultivar having better fitness and a higher rate of larvae survival in the fruits attached to the tree. These factors need to be considered to properly adjust the phenology models and improve the Integrated Pest Management system of apples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The plum fruit moth, Grapholita funebrana Treitschke (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae), is an important agricultural pest that seriously affects fruit production across the Palearctic region. In this study, for the first time, we predict the potential global distribution of this pest using an ensemble species distribution model. The distribution range predicted, especially for those regions with highly suitable habitats for this moth in parts of East Asia and Europe, indicates a high risk of G. funebrana outbreaks and the accompanying massive economic losses, especially in plum and apricot production, highlighting the necessity of pest management. In the United States of America (USA) and Japan (for which G. funebrana distributions have not previously been recorded), especially in areas that are highly suitable for this moth, monitoring and quarantine measures should be strengthened to prevent the colonization of this pest and its subsequent wide dispersal. The plum fruit moth, Grapholita funebrana Treitschke, is one of the most significant borer pests, often causing huge economic losses in fruit production. However, the potential distribution range of this economically important pest is still poorly understood. For this study, we simulated an ensemble species distribution model to predict the spatiotemporal distribution pattern of G. funebrana at a global scale. The results show that the suitable habitats for this moth, under current environmental conditions, are mainly distributed in Europe; East Asia, including China and Japan; Central Asia; and some parts of America. In future projections, the suitable habitats are predicted to generally expand northward, while the suitable area will remain unchanged overall. However, the area of highly suitable habitat will decrease to only 17.49% of that found under current conditions. None of the nine factors used were revealed to be predominant predictors in terms of contributing to the model, suggesting that the integrated effects of these variables shape G. funebrana's distribution. In this study, the distribution range that has been predicted, especially for the regions with a highly suitable habitat, poses a high risk of G. funebrana outbreaks, highlighting the urgency of pest management. Moreover, in the United States of America (USA) and Japan (for which G. funebrana distributions were not previously recorded), especially in areas highly suitable for this moth, monitoring and quarantine measures should be strengthened to prevent the colonization and further dispersal of this pest, as seen with its close relative G. molesta, which has become a cosmopolitan pest species, migrating from its native region (East Asia) to other continents, including the Americas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study examined specimens of the tribe Olethreutini collected from more than 60 sites in Taiwan between the years 1921 and 2005, listing 102 species in 35 genera. The specimens are deposited in the National Museum of Natural History, Washington, DC, USA (USNM), and the McGuire Center for Lepidoptera and Biodiversity, Florida Museum of Natural History, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA (FSCA). At the same time, the distribution of these species in mainland China was examined, and the research specimens are deposited in the Insect Collection, Nankai University, Tianjin, China (NKU). This study makes up for the shortcomings of the previous research on the Chinese tortricids, which is conducive to the comprehensive completion of the systematic research of Chinese fauna and also provides basic data for the systematic research of the world's leaf-roller moth. Thirty-five genera and one hundred and two species of the tortricid tribe Olethreutini documented from Taiwan are listed, two genera and six species of which are newly recorded for China and two genera and eighteen species of which are newly recorded for Taiwan. Nine species are recorded in the mainland of China for the first time, which were endemic to Taiwan before this study. The local monographs of China and references are summarized with the examined specimens. The synonymies and geographic distribution in China are provided for each species, and a list of examined specimens is provided when applicable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

General odorant-binding proteins (GOBPs) play a crucial role in the detection of host plant volatiles and pheromones by lepidopterans. Previous studies identified two duplications in the GOBP2 gene in Cydia pomonella. In this study, we employed qRT-PCR, protein purification, and fluorescence competitive binding assays to investigate the functions of three GOBP2 genes in C. pomonella. Our findings reveal that CpomGOBP2a and CpomGOBP2b are specifically highly expressed in antennae, while CpomGOBP2c exhibits high specific expression in wings, suggesting a potential divergence in their functions. Recombinant proteins of CpomGOBP2a, CpomGOBP2b, and CpomGOBP2c were successfully expressed and purified, enabling an in-depth exploration of their functions. Competitive binding assays with 20 host plant volatiles and the sex pheromone (codlemone) demonstrated that CpomGOBP2a exhibits strong binding to four compounds, namely butyl octanoate, ethyl (2E,4Z)-deca-2,4-dienoate (pear ester), codlemone, and geranylacetone, with corresponding dissolution constants (Ki) of 8.59993 μM, 9.14704 μM, 22.66298 μM, and 22.86923 μM, respectively. CpomGOBP2b showed specific binding to pear ester (Ki = 17.37481 μM), while CpomGOBP2c did not exhibit binding to any tested compounds. In conclusion, our results indicate a functional divergence among CpomGOBP2a, CpomGOBP2b, and CpomGOBP2c. These findings contribute valuable insights for the development of novel prevention and control technologies and enhance our understanding of the evolutionary mechanisms of olfactory genes in C. pomonella. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The codling moth, Cydia pomonella, is a major global agricultural pest of apple, pear, and walnut, and its behaviors are largely influenced by taste and smell. Different protein families that function as chemosensory receptors mediate detection of compounds from the environment. Manipulation of codling moth behaviors by using these compounds in orchards has been a successful approach to reduce fruit damage. This approach, however, has largely targeted male behaviors. Since it is the females that lay eggs, which propagate the species, in this report we sought to learn more about female behaviors. Specifically, we examined gene expression of the smell and taste receptors in female codling moth abdomen tip organs involved in egg-laying behaviors. We identified sets of both smell and taste receptor genes expressed in the abdomen tip that are likely candidates to influence egg-laying decisions. We also determined that expression of some of these receptors is increased or decreased after mating. These results increase our knowledge about the genes that can influence female codling moth behaviors. Future research will study the role of individual receptors with the aim of identifying taste and smell compounds that can be used to manipulate female codling moth behaviors in orchards. In insects, the chemical senses influence most vital behaviors, including mate seeking and egg laying; these sensory modalities are predominantly governed by odorant receptors (ORs), ionotropic receptors (IRs), and gustatory receptors (GRs). The codling moth, Cydia pomonella, is a global pest of apple, pear, and walnut, and semiochemically based management strategies limit the economic impacts of this species. The previous report of expression of a candidate pheromone-responsive OR in female codling moth ovipositor and pheromone glands raises further questions about the chemosensory capacity of these organs. With an RNA-sequencing approach, we examined chemoreceptors' expression in the female codling moth abdomen tip, sampling tissues from mated and unmated females and pupae. We report 37 ORs, 22 GRs, and 18 IRs expressed in our transcriptome showing overlap with receptors expressed in adult antennae as well as non-antennal candidate receptors. A quantitative PCR approach was also taken to assess the effect of mating on OR expression in adult female moths, revealing a few genes to be upregulated or downregulating after mating. These results provide a better understanding of the chemosensory role of codling moth female abdomen tip organs in female-specific behaviors. Future research will determine the function of specific receptors to augment current semiochemical-based strategies for codling moth management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Populations of the large fruit-tree tortrix Archips podana consist of a mixture of four morphs that differ in male genitalia traits, ecology and sexual behaviour. Here, I tested whether these morphs differently respond to pollution. I found that the within-population diversity of A. podana around the industrial city of Lipetsk in central Russia correlated neither with the distance to the nearest industrial polluter nor with the number of moths captured by pheromone traps. Thus, the four phenotypes of A. podana similarly respond to pollution. Morphological polymorphism offers rich opportunities for studying the eco-evolutionary mechanisms that drive the adaptations of local populations to heterogeneous and changing environments. In this study, I explore the association between pollution load, abundance of large fruit-tree tortrix Archips podana and its within-species diversity (expressed in the presence of apical and/or lateral prongs on the phallus in male genitalia) across 26 study sites located 0.5 to 31 km from the industrial city of Lipetsk in central Russia. The Shannon diversity index, calculated from the frequencies of four morphs, correlated neither with the distance to the nearest industrial polluter (a proxy of pollution load) nor with the number of moths captured by pheromone traps (a measure of population abundance). The statistical power of the correlation analysis was sufficient (67%) to detect a medium effect (i.e., Pearson correlation coefficient with an absolute value of 0.40), if it existed. I conclude that the four phenotypes of A. podana do not differ in tolerance to industrial pollution and similarly respond to pollution-induced environmental disturbance. This is the first study of industrial pollution impacts on within-species diversity of insects expressed in the discrete traits of their male genitalia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The European grapevine moth, Lobesia botrana (Denis and Schiffermüller) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), is the most critical pest of vineyards. In the present study, pheromone-baited traps were applied in 2021 and 2022 to monitor the moth population dynamics and to determine the number of L. botrana generations. The number of eggs and larvae was also counted in four vineyards with Askari, Yaghooti, Keshmeshi, and Fakhri cultivars. Moreover, the morphological properties of clusters were evaluated in different grape cultivars to find out the susceptible cultivar to L. botrana. In 2022, different insecticides were used in the Askari cultivar vineyard, and larval damage level was assessed. Three generations were recorded in all vineyards each year. The population of males was not affected by the cultivar. In contrast, the population density of eggs and larvae was significantly higher in Yaghooti than in other tested cultivars. It could be attributed to the cluster compactness and thin skin of berries in Yaghooti, which makes it more susceptible to L. botrana infestations. In contrast, the lowest eggs and larval population density was reported in the Fakhri cultivar indicating the tolerance of this cultivar compared to the other tested cultivars. The field trial showed that the application of insecticides in the second and third generations reduced the damage level of L. botrana. The rotation of insecticides with different modes of action in consecutive generations of L. botrana can be used to reduce damage levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study used field observations to demonstrate that intercropping okra in a pear orchard reduced pheromone trap catches of Grapholita molesta in two years, whereas intercropping with castor bean reduced them in one year, relative to natural grass cover. GC-MS assays showed that hydrocarbons, phenols, and ketones predominated in the volatiles emitted from okra, whereas aldehydes, ketones, and esters were the most abundant volatiles emitted from castor bean. Five of these compounds exhibited repellency to G. molesta in olfactometry assays, especially cinnamaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate, and thymol; the former also served as an attractant for the egg parasitoid Trichogamma dendrolimi, which is often used in augmentation biocontrol of the moth. Intercrops can lower pest densities by increasing plant diversity, altering chemical communication in the arthropod community, and integrating well with other IPM tactics. We used two years of field observations and Y-tube olfactometer assays to explore the effects of intercropping a pear orchard with okra and castor bean on the cosmopolitan fruit-boring pest Grapholita molesta (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae). Intercropping okra reduced G. molesta trap catches in the pear orchard in both years, and intercropping with castor bean reduced them in the second year. Hydrocarbons, phenols, and ketones predominated in the GC-MS assay of okra volatiles, whereas castor bean volatiles were rich in aldehydes, ketones, and esters. Five of the commercially available volatiles released by these plants exhibited repellency to G. molesta in olfactometer trials, especially cinnamaldehyde, dibutyl phthalate, and thymol; the former compound also exhibited attraction to the egg parasitoid Trichogamma dendrolimi (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae). In addition to their repellent properties, okra and castor bean may enhance integrated control of G. molesta in orchards by hosting prey that support populations of generalist predators that either provide biological pest control services within the orchard ecosystem or generate non-consumptive effects that contribute to pest deterence. Among the plant volatiles evaluated, cinnamaldehyde has the best potential for deployment in orchards to repel G. molesta without disrupting augmentative releases of T. dendrolimi. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Within the existing pheromone-based strategies for Lobesia botrana monitoring and management, mating disruption appears to be the most studied and deployed in wine-growing contexts worldwide. The effectiveness of this strategy led to many efforts to improve it, relying upon new available technologies. In this study, we assessed the efficacy of a novel active pheromone emitter (product code: Isonet® L MISTERX843) for L. botrana mating disruption, testing it at three different densities (i.e., 2, 3 and 4 units/ha). The aerosol emitter was evaluated in two wine-growing contexts, where it significantly reduced the L. botrana infestation when compared to vineyards not managed with mating disruption. The aerosol efficacy performances were comparable to those obtained with passive dispensers (Isonet® L TT) and another active dispenser (Checkmate® Puffer® LB) already on the market. Overall, this novel aerosol device ensures the high effectiveness of the mating disruption program. On the other hand, extra care should be given for their deployment in the field, considering many factors such as the orography and shape of the vineyard as well as the dominant winds. Despite the great amount of information on the European Grapevine Moth (EGVM), Lobesia botrana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), and the effective strategies available for its management, this moth remains the main key pest damaging grapevines in the Mediterranean and Central Europe wine-growing areas. Synthesizing and manipulating its sex pheromone components fostered the development of new dispensers to boost the effectiveness and sustainability of mating disruption (MD) programs. Recent MD research has highlighted that the effectiveness of aerosol emitters is comparable to that of passive dispensers when applied in large, uniform sites such as Spanish vineyards. However, aerosol emitters that are equally effective in geographical areas characterized by small-sized vineyards, typical of many Italian regions, have not received enough research attention. To face this challenge, herein the experimental aerosol emitter (product code: Isonet® L MISTERX843) was tested at three different application rates (i.e., 2, 3 and 4 units/ha) in three study sites, two in Tuscany (Central Italy in 2017 and 2018) and one in Emilia-Romagna (Northern Italy in 2017), respectively, for a total of five trials. To assess the efficacy of this novel MD aerosol emitter, three different application densities were compared with an untreated control and two grower's standards. The latter were represented by passive (Isonet® L TT) and active (Checkmate® Puffer® LB) release dispensers, already on the market for EGVM MD and applied at, respectively, 200–300 and 2.5–4 units/ha. MD carried out with Isonet® L MISTERX843 led to zero catches of males in the pheromone traps. They also allowed for a significant reduction in the number of infested flower clusters and bunches, as well as in the number of nests per flowers cluster/bunch, if compared to the untreated control. As a general trend, MD effectiveness was fully comparable, or even better, if compared to the grower's standard. In conclusion, our research pointed out that the Isonet® L MISTERX843 can allow for effective EGVM management in small-sized Italian vineyards. Lastly, our economic evaluation showed that the MD whole cost per hectare using active or passive release devices was comparable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Ants are widespread across terrestrial ecosystems, including agroecosystems, where they take part in several important processes. They often can act as predators of a wide range of insect pests in agricultural fields, which should be considered by management programs, and can sometimes be actively exploited to promote sustainable biological control strategies. In a recent experiment conducted in Europe, pear trees visited by larger numbers of ants suffered fewer attacks to their fruits by the codling moth, a small lepidopteran, which is a significant economic pest worldwide, especially in apple, pear, and walnut orchards. However, the exact form of the interaction between the ants and codling moths remained unclear. While ants were already known to prey upon mature larvae or pupae in the soil, this new evidence suggested they could also control the eggs or newly hatched larvae that had not yet attacked the fruits, which are the two stages whose removal would directly prevent fruit damage. We conducted laboratory experiments to determine whether two common European ants could prey upon these stages. Our results suggest that these ants are effectively able to kill newly hatched larvae, while the eggs do not appear directly vulnerable to predation. Further investigation under field conditions would be needed to assess whether ants may also interfere with the oviposition by adult moths. The predatory ability of ants (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) against insect pests can offer an important service to agricultural activities and may sometimes be directly exploited in biological control strategies. The codling moth Cydia pomonella (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae) is a major agricultural pest of fruit orchards, whose biological control is complicated by the fact that the larvae spend most of their life protected within the fruits they damage. In a recent experiment in Europe, pear trees in which ant activity was artificially increased by the addition of sugary liquid dispensers (artificial nectaries) suffered less damage caused by the larvae to their fruits. While some ants were already known to prey upon the mature larvae or pupae of C. pomonella in the soil, prevention of fruit damage would require predation upon eggs or newly hatched larvae, which have not yet excavated into the fruits. We verified whether two different Mediterranean ants frequently observed in fruit orchards, Crematogaster scutellaris and Tapinoma magnum, were able to prey upon C. pomonella eggs and larvae in laboratory conditions. Our experiments demonstrated that both species similarly attacked and killed young C. pomonella larvae. On the other hand, the eggs mostly attracted the attention of T. magnum but were never damaged. Further field assessments are required to understand whether ants may also interfere with oviposition by adults or whether larger ant species, although generally rarer in orchards, may also prey upon eggs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The sterile insect technique/inherited sterility (SIT/IS) has been successfully implemented to suppress or eradicate pestiferous species of Lepidoptera. The SIT/IS involves the release of mass-reared and gamma-irradiated moths (partially sterile males and fully sterile females) to achieve matings with wild moths. The success of any SIT/IS project depends, inter alia, on the overflooding ratio of released sterile moths to wild moths and the efficiency of male-only versus bi-sex releases of irradiated moths. The current laboratory study aims to understand the efficacy of overflooding ratios and the use of male-only releases compared with bi-sex releases for SIT/IS against the European grapevine moth, Lobesia botrana (Denis and Schiffermüller). This laboratory study explored the concept of whether irradiated male-only releases are more or equally efficient as releases of both irradiated males and females in the context of using the sterile insect technique/inherited sterility (SIT/IS) for the management of the European grapevine moth Lobesia botrana. The current study examined the mating competitiveness of 150-Gy-treated L. botrana male and female moths or 150-Gy-treated male moths only, with untreated moths in laboratory cages. Our results showed that the release of both sexes significantly increased the competitiveness value (C) and the biological efficiency index (BE) as compared with male-only release, and this was independent of the male to untreated male ratio. Moreover, a single release of 150-Gy-treated and untreated males and females at a 1:1:10:10 ratio (untreated male:untreated female: treated male:treated female) significantly reduced egg hatch, and the number of first-generation offspring (F1) was small. The emergence of F2-moths per untreated F1 male and female moth was low, but these undesired fertile moths should be eliminated in order to achieve effective control. The results presented herein provide useful information on the impact of 150-Gy-treated male-only, versus releases of both treated males and females on untreated moths, which is essential to managing L. botrana populations with SIT/IS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cosmopolitan agricultural herbivorous pests are provided with a wide range of potential hosts. Therefore, they have high carrying capacity, and can cause extremely severe damage in agroecosystems. Understanding the ecological mechanisms of their population dynamics, especially as they relate to large-scale meteorological variations and geographical landscape influences, can help us to reveal how they became such important pests. The oriental fruit moth, Grapholita molesta, is a typical example of a significant pest distributed on a large scale, which is capable of damaging fruit trees of economic value such as peach, apple, pear, etc. This pest not only occurs in China, but exists on all continents except Antarctica. In order to prevent major pests and diseases, a system of plant protection has been established gradually in peach orchards within the Modern Agro-industry Technology Research System in China (CARS) since 2009. In the system, we collected the monitoring data of G. molesta by using pheromone traps at 17 experimental stations, and then used the corresponding climate data (temperature and precipitation) to explore the link between climate factors using mixed models. The results show that both monthly mean temperature and precipitation had a significant positive correlation with the occurrence of G. molesta. Therefore, global warming with higher levels of precipitation may favor G. molesta, allowing it to outperform other potential pests at the population level in peach orchards, on a large scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Mating disruption for insect pests can be an effective and environmentally sensible method. For landscape-level population management of forest insects, however, statistically rigorous experiments can be difficult to undertake. In 2021, we tested a new microencapsulated formulation (CONFOUNDSBW) that was designed specifically for low density spruce budworm populations in New Brunswick, Canada, in a fully replicated experiment. While adult trap catch was reduced by 90% in treatment blocks, larval density and apparent fecundity were not significantly affected when compared to those in untreated control blocks. Although mating disruption remains a potentially useful tool in landscape-level forest pest management, CONFOUNDSBW is not effective against spruce budworm at low population densities when applied in accordance to label rates and volumes. Choristoneura fumiferana (SBW) is a major defoliating pest of balsam fir and spruce in eastern North America. As part of an integrated management strategy for SBW, we evaluated the effectiveness of mating disruption as a landscape-level population control tactic. Using a sprayable formulation (CONFOUNDSBW) containing a synthetic sex pheromone blend, we treated five 300 ha blocks in Northern New Brunswick with an aerially applied microencapsulated mixture. There were significant reductions in adult trap catches in treated blocks compared to untreated control blocks. Branch sampling in treated blocks showed uniform distribution of CONFOUNDSBW deposition throughout the blocks. Population densities following treatment were not significantly affected when compared to densities in control blocks, or prior to treatment. Analysis of egg:adult ratios indicates that no immigration events occurred within treatment or control blocks. The lack of population reduction following treatment strongly suggests that widespread application of CONFOUNDSBW at a rate of 50 g of active ingredient per hectare is not an effective tool in controlling SBW populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Assessing the biodiversity of a site is challenging, as a comprehensive survey of all plant and animal species is usually intractable due to limited resources. There is great interest in finding groups of organisms that may serve as proxies for the total biodiversity of a site. Numerous taxa have been proposed and utilized for rapid biodiversity assessments that allow for such a survey in a matter of weeks or less. Herein, we test the idea that nocturnal moths have many of the characteristics that make them ideal for such surveys. We demonstrate that even in a few hours of sampling during single night surveys, moth communities are predictive of regional forest types at sampling sites in New Jersey. An ordination method, known as non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) analyses, revealed that moth communities differ significantly across the four forest types that we assessed. We used Analysis of Similarity (ANOSIM) R tests to quantify the degree of differentiation among moth communities, and found that the moth families Tortricidae and Geometridae predict forest communities nearly as well as the total moth diversity. Uncommon species were better predictors than common species. Host plant generalists were better predictors than specialists, which was a surprising find. Biodiversity conservation decisions are typically based on limited data and resources. For this reason, there is great interest in surveying taxa that may allow for a rapid assessment of the biodiversity at a site. Numerous taxa have been proposed and utilized for rapid assessments that allow for such a survey in a matter of weeks or less. Herein, we test the idea that nocturnal moths have many of the characteristics that make them ideal for such surveys, such as relative ease of identification, strong ecological association with specific plant species and habitats, high alpha diversity, extended seasonal activity, and ease of trapping. We demonstrate that even in a few hours of sampling during single night surveys, moth communities are predictive of regional forest types at sampling sites in New Jersey. We sampled moths in five different forest habitats in New Jersey, USA: Pine Barrens, Upland Deciduous Forest, Palustrine Deciduous Forest, Maritime Forest, and Ruderal/Disturbed Forests, at four sites per forest type. Non-metric multidimensional scaling (NMDS) analyses revealed that moth communities differ significantly across these four forest types (p < 0.01). We used Analysis of Similarity (ANOSIM) R tests to quantify the degree of differentiation among moth communities, and found that Tortricidae (R = 0.657) and Geometridae (R = 0.637) predict forest communities nearly as well as the total moth diversity (R = 0.668). Uncommon species (R = 0.665) were better predictors than common species (R = 0.500). Host plant generalists (R = 0.654) were better predictors than specialists (0.538), which was a surprising find. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), is a key pest in apple production. Controlling C. pomonella infestations with insecticides can be challenging, as it requires excessive insecticide use during the growing season. A survey of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) and their endosymbionts (ESs) in apple production orchards of Kayseri Province, one of the main apple production areas of Türkiye, was conducted to develop an alternative control strategy to chemicals. Both EPNs and ESs have been studied for their potential control of C. pomonella larvae. The results demonstrate that EPNs and their ESs can reduce larval infestations of C. pomonella. The codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), is one of the major pests in pome fruit production worldwide. Heavy treatment of the larvae of C. pomonella with insecticides triggered the development of resistance to many groups of insecticides. In addition, the increasing concern about the adverse effects of synthetic insecticides on human health and the environment has led to the development of sustainable and eco-friendly control practices for C. pomonella. The entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) (Steinernema and Heterorhabditis spp.) and their endosymbionts (Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus spp.) represent a newly emerging approach to controlling a wide range of insect pests. In the present study, field surveys were conducted in apple orchards to isolate and identify EPNs and their endosymbionts and evaluate their insecticidal efficacy on the larvae of C. pomonella. EPNs were isolated from 12 of 100 soil samples (12%). Seven samples were identified as Steinernema feltiae (Filipjev, 1934) (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae), whereas five samples were assigned to Heterorhabditis bacteriophora (Poinar, 1976) (Rhabditida: Heterorhabditidae). The pathogenicity of the EPN species/isolates was screened on the last instar larvae of G. mellonella. The two most pathogenic isolates from each EPN species were tested against fifth instar larvae of C. pomonella under controlled conditions. The maximum mortality (100%) was achieved by all EPN species/isolates at a concentration of 100 IJs/larva 96 h after treatment. The endosymbionts of selected H. bacteriophora and S. feltiae species were identified as Photorhabdus luminescens subsp. kayaii and Xenorhabdus bovienii, respectively. The mortality rates ranged between 25 and 62% when the fifth larval instar larvae of C. pomonella were exposed to the treatment of cell-free supernatants of symbiotic bacteria. In essence, the present survey indicated that EPNs and their symbiotic bacteria have good potential for biological control of C. pomonella. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

When compared with the unamended control, the developmental times of larvae, pupae, or entire immature stage were shorter on artificial diets amended with 3 or 6 mg/g (low and moderate concentrations) of amygdalin, whereas the developmental time increased on artificial diets amended with 48 mg/g (high concentration) of amygdalin. The unamended artificial diet (0 mg of amygdalin per g of diet) was the control, and then the mass fractions of amygdalin in the treatment artificial diets were 3, 6, 12, 24, and 48 mg of amygdalin per g of initial artificial diet. Larval Feeding on Diets and Developmental Times of Immature Stages B I Proportion of larvae feeding on diets. i b The proportion of larvae feeding on the artificial diets was not significantly affected by amygdalin concentrations ( I F i = 1.339, df = 5,35, I p i = 0.275) (Figure 1). [Extracted from the article]

Another reason may be that the antibiotic types screened in vitro only inhibit the culturable bacteria in the I G. molesta i gut, while the inhibitory effect on the unculturable bacteria is unknown. In this study, after treatment with ciprofloxacin, there was no increase of the non-dominant bacteria to the dominant bacteria in the intestinal microbiota of I G. molesta i , but only changes in the relative abundance of the dominant bacteria. However, the minimum inhibitory concentration of ciprofloxacin against the intestinal bacteria of I C. capitata i was 5 g/mL, which was much higher than the 1 g/mL in this study, indicating that the intestinal bacteria of I G. molesta i were more sensitive to ciprofloxacin [[35]]. [Extracted from the article]

Simple Summary: In a framework of sustainable agriculture, strategies aimed at preserving and enhancing pest natural enemies are crucial. However, knowledge about the parasitoid complex associated with a particular pest is often fragmentary. Herein, we investigated the parasitoids associated with the European grapevine moth, one of the main vine pests in the Mediterranean area, in a natural context, where the moth lives on Daphne gnidium, deemed as its original host plant. We observed a heterogeneous and complex community, consisting of a few predominant parasitoid species, followed by satellite species, and occasional parasitoids. Parasitic wasps, such as Campoplex capitator and Trichogramma spp., can be also found in the vineyards, thus understanding their dynamics in the wild could be useful to improve biological control strategies for managing EGVM populations. The European grapevine moth (EGVM), Lobesia botrana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), is one of the major concerns for vineyard managers in the Mediterranean area. It is a polyphagous moth, which develops on a wide variety of host plants, among which the spurge flax, Daphne gnidium (Thymelaeaceae), very likely represents its originary wild host plant. In this study, we investigated the parasitoid complex of L. botrana feeding on D. gnidium during a three-year sampling in a natural reserve in Tuscany, Italy, where this plant is extremely abundant while the grapevine is absent. A total of 24 species of parasitoids were obtained from eggs, larvae, and pupae of EGVM, belonging to 6 families of Hymenoptera and a family of Diptera. The ichneumonid wasp Campoplex capitator was the most abundant larval parasitoid. Four species of the genus Trichogramma were obtained from parasitized eggs during the first year of sampling, with a peak in the parasitisation during the EGVM 3rd generation. Some of the main EGVM parasitoids on spurge flax were also observed in vineyards, although a certain degree of redundancy was observed in the wild, due to several less frequent "satellite" species exploiting the same host. Overall, this research sheds light on the parasitoid community and dynamics of this important moth pest in a grapevine-free natural ecosystem, discussing the possible role of natural areas as ecological reservoirs of pest natural enemies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Environment-friendly and sustainable insect pest control approaches such as the sterile insect technique/inherited sterility (SIT/IS) have been proposed against the European grapevine moth Lobesia botrana. Reproductive behaviour, such as oviposition, mating ability, and multiple mating of 150 Gy-treated females, was studied. Moreover, the last-male sperm precedence (P2 value) and male's flight response to treated females were also investigated. The present study aims to provide basic information which is essential to ensure successful implementation of SIT/IS as part of an integrated approach for the management of L. botrana. The sterile insect technique/inherited sterility (SIT/IS) has been suggested as an eco-friendly control tactic for area-wide integrated pest management approaches in order to control the European grapevine moth, Lobesia botrana. This study assessed the effects of an irradiation dose of 150 Gy administered to newly emerged female moths on their egg laying behaviour and mating ability at different ages at mating. Moreover, the effects of multiple mating on the mating ability of treated females, pattern of sperm precedence in twice-mated females and the flight response of treated and untreated males to treated and untreated calling females were also investigated. Females treated with 150 Gy initiated calling in a way similar to untreated females. When treated females were paired with untreated males, the mean number of eggs oviposited per female during 6 days was reduced (59.6 and 82.8 eggs/female, respectively), as was their mating ability and multiple mating compared with untreated females. The proportion of offspring fertilized by the second of the two males to mate with the female or last-male sperm precedence (P2 value) constituted 97% of the eggs, suggesting that the second male mate fathered the most offspring. The outcome of this work could be viewed as an integrated approach for improving effectiveness and enabling successful implementation of a SIT/IS program against L. botrana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Different isolates of Cydia pomonella granulovirus (CpGV) have been formulated into different biological control agents that are applied to reduce the infestation and losses induced by codling moth in organic and integrated apple and pear orchards. Cyd-X® is the most widely applied CpGV product in apple orchards in the USA and contains a single active ingredient, the isolate CpGV-M (GV-0001). Aiming to investigate the susceptibility of codling moth to GV-0001, we used a discriminating virus concentration to screen five codling moth populations derived from Washington State (USA), which were reared in the laboratory (colony WA1-WA5). The results indicate that colony WA3 had a significantly reduced susceptibility to GV-0001 and survivors from the bioassay can produce offspring. WA3 represents the first documented case of CpGV resistance in the USA. In further tests, WA3 showed resistance to all commercial CpGV agents currently registered in the USA. Nonetheless, the resistant WA3 colony showed high susceptibility to three newly developed CpGV preparations. Therefore, the introduction of the novel CpGV formulations may allow the maintenance of sustainable management programs for codling moth in the USA. Codling moth (Cydia pomonella L.) is a very important pest in apple, pear, and walnut orchards worldwide, including the USA. Cydia pomonella granulovirus (CpGV) is used to control codling moth in organic and conventional production. Due to increasing codling moth infestations from organic apple orchards in Washington State, USA, five codling moth colonies (WA1-WA5) were screened for their susceptibility relative to the isolate GV-0001, the main active ingredient of Cyd-X®, using a discriminating concentration of 6 × 104 OB/mL. Compared to a susceptible laboratory colony, the observed results indicated that GV-0001 lacked efficacy against codling moth colony WA3. It was confirmed that WA3 was the first case of codling moth resistance to CpGV in the USA. Further testing of WA3 was performed on a range of CpGV isolates and a lack of efficacy was observed against additional isolates. However, three newly developed CpGV preparations can efficiently infect larvae from the resistant colony WA3. Our results suggest that there is an urgent need to monitor the situation in the USA, aiming to prevent the emergence or spread of additional codling moth populations with CpGV resistance. Strategies to sustain the efficacy of codling moth control using novel CpGV formulations need to be developed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The extensive use of synthetic insecticides in agriculture poses a great risk for human health and the ecosystem, and mandates the development of safer alternatives derived from natural products. In the present study, we assessed the larvicidal effect of Pistacia lentiscus fruits, leaves, and bark extracts and their components on larvae of a major vine pest, Lobesia botrana. Pistacia lentiscus is an evergreen shrub or small tree possessing significant medicinal value with numerous therapeutic uses since antiquity. Using petri dish residual exposure and topical application bioassays we demonstrated that the fruit extract of P. lentiscus and its metabolites were toxic on L. botrana larvae. Extracts from leaves and bark showed no effect. Βioassay-guided fractionation of P. lentiscus fruit hexane extract led to the identification of its constituents with insecticidal properties on L. botrana larvae. Specifically, we have identified that the main contributor to the bioactivity of the hexane extract of P. lentiscus fruits is its major fraction, PLFHe2 (76.25%). Furthermore, we have found that PLFHe2 is a mixture of triglycerides and that the fatty acids responsible for the observed toxicity are oleic and linoleic acid. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Rosinweed is a novel perennial crop being developed for oilseed and biofuel in the midwestern US. A primary pest is the Giant Eucosma Moth (GEM). Little is known about the chemical ecology or flight behavior of adults, but many attractants have been identified from other closely related species. The goals of this study were to evaluate whether any of these compounds could improve the capture of GEMs on sticky cards in the field and determine whether the most attractive volatiles might affect flight behavior in the laboratory. We found that there was significant attraction to (E)-8-dodecenyl acetate, which may possibly be a component in the pheromone blend for GEM. Exposure to these compounds in the laboratory reduced flight capacity. Our results suggest these two compounds could be included in monitoring or management programs for the Giant Eucosma moth. Silphium integrifolium is a novel perennial crop being developed for oilseed and biofuel in the midwestern US. One of the primary pests in this system is Eucosma giganteana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae). Little is known about the chemical ecology or flight behavior of E. giganteana, but many semiochemicals have been identified from other closely related Eucosma species. Some of these compounds include: (Z)- and (E)-8-dodecenyl acetate, (E)-9-dodecenyl acetate, (Z)-8-dodecenol, (E,E)-8,10-dodecadienyl acetate, and (Z,E)-9,12-tetradecadienyl acetate. The goals of this study were to evaluate whether any of these compounds could improve capture of E. giganteana on clear sticky cards in the field, and the most attractive volatiles might affect flight behavior on a computer-automated flight mill assay. We found that there was significant attraction to (E)-8-dodecenyl acetate in two years in the field, which may possibly be a component in the pheromone blend for E. giganteana. On flight mills, E. giganteana flew an average of 23 km in a 24 h period. The presence of attractive stimuli (e.g., (E)-8-dodecenyl acetate) had arresting properties and decreasing flight distance on the mill by 78 to 80%. The longest flight distances were registered in the morning (4:00–12:00) and were 1.8-fold greater than flight distances and durations at night (20:00–4:00). (E)-8-dodecenyl acetate may be useful in behaviorally based monitoring and management strategies for E. giganteana. Overall, our research expands the knowledge on the chemical ecology of adult E. giganteana. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biological control requires specific tools for the accurate detection and identification of natural enemies in order to estimate variations in their abundance and their impact according to changes in environmental conditions or agricultural practices. Here, we developed two molecular methods of detection based on PCR-RFLP with universal primers and on PCR with specific primers to identify commonly occurring larval parasitoids of the tortricid fruit pests and to estimate parasitism in the codling moth. Both methods were designed based on DNA sequences of the COI mitochondrial gene for a range of parasitoids that emerged from Cydia pomonella and Grapholita molesta caterpillars (102 parasitoids; nine species) and a range of potential tortricid hosts (40moths; five species) damaging fruits. The PCR-RFLP method (digestion by AluI of a 482 bp COI fragment) was very powerful to identify parasitoid adults and their hosts, but failed to detect parasitoid larvae within eggs or within young C. pomonella caterpillars. The PCR method based on specific primers amplified COI fragments of different lengths (131 to 463 bp) for Ascogaster quadridentata (Braconidae); Pristomerus vulnerator (Ichneumonidae); Trichomma enecator (Ichneumonidae); and Perilampus tristis (Perilampidae), and demonstrated a higher level of sensibility than the PCR-RFLP method. Molecular estimations of parasitism levels in a natural C. pomonella population with the specific primers did not differ from traditional estimations based on caterpillar rearing (about 60% parasitism in a non-treated apple orchard). These PCR-based techniques provide information about within-host parasitoid assemblage in the codling moth and preliminary results on the larval parasitism of major tortricid fruit pests. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Laboratory and extended laboratory bioassays were conducted to determine the residual toxicities of various insecticides against two key pests of cranberries, Sparganothis sulfureana and Choristoneura parallela (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), and their non-target effects on the predatory Orius insidiosus (Hemiptera: Anthocoridae). The effects of nine insecticides with different modes of action on S. sulfureana and Ch. parallela eggs, larvae, and adults were tested in the laboratory, while the efficacy of a post-bloom application on larval mortality and mass of these pests and on adult O. insidiosus was evaluated in extended laboratory experiments. The organophosphate chlorpyrifos and the spinosyn spinetoram provided long-lasting (seven-day) control against all stages of both pests. The growth regulator methoxyfenozide and the diamides chlorantraniliprole and cyantraniliprole had strong (1-7 days) larvicidal, particularly on young larvae, and growth inhibitory activity, but only the diamides were adulticidal. Among neonicotinoids, acetamiprid had stronger ovicidal and adulticidal activity than thiamethoxam, showing within-insecticide class differences in toxicities; however, both were weak on larvae. Lethality of novaluron and indoxacarb was inconsistent, varying depending on species and stage. Chlorpyrifos was most toxic to O. insidiosus. These results show species- and stage-specific toxicities, and greater compatibility with biological control, of the newer reduced-risk classes of insecticides than older chemistries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The codling moth, Cydia pomonella L. (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae), is a major pest of apple, pear and walnut orchards worldwide. This pest is often controlled using the biologically friendly control method known as pheromone-based mating disruption. Mating disruption likely exerts selection on the sexual communication system of codling moth, as male and female moths will persist in their attempt to meet and mate. Surprisingly little is known on the intraspecific variation of sexual communication in this species. We started an investigation to determine the level of individual variation in the female sex pheromone composition of this moth and whether variation among different populations might be correlated with use of mating disruption against those populations. By extracting pheromone glands of individual females from a laboratory population in Canada and from populations from apple orchards in Spain and Italy, we found significant between- and within-population variation. Comparing females that had been exposed to mating disruption, or not, revealed a significant difference in sex pheromone composition for two of the minor components. Overall, the intraspecific variation observed shows the potential for a shift in female sexual signal when selection pressure is high, as is the case with continuous use of mating disruption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The genus Rhopalovalva Kuznetzov, 1964 belongs to Eucosmini within the famlily Tortricidae with larvae feeding on the plants of Fagaceae, Leguminosae, Convolvulaceae and Aceraceae. In this paper, Rhopalovalva is revised from China, with two species (Rhopalovalvaspinata sp. nov. and Rhopalovalva stilliformis sp. nov.) described as new to science. Photographs of the adults and male genitalia of these two new species are given. A key to Chinese species of Rhopalovalva Kuznetzov is provided based on the characters of the male genitalia. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The European grapevine moth (EGVM) Lobesia botrana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) attacks vineyards in Europe, the Middle East, and North and South America. Global movement toward sustainable agriculture urges the development of environmentally friendly tools that can replace traditional pesticides. Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) are well-known biological control agents against various arthropod pests. The EPNs act together with symbiotic bacteria that produce natural products with insecticidal potential. Novel formulations and application technology allow their application against aerial pests, including those associated with vineyards. This study investigated the viability of four EPN species and their corresponding bacteria derivates (unfiltered ferment, UF, or cell-free supernatant, CFS) against EGVM (larval and pupa instars). The results revealed that all EPN species killed various EGVM larval stages. Killing pupae required a higher number of IJs than controlling larvae. Steinernema carpocapsae registered the most promising results, killing ~50% L1 and >75% L3/L5 in 2 days. The use of the bacterial bioactive compounds achieved similar results, with UF registering higher activity than CFS. Overall, we demonstrated that both EPN and bacterial bioproducts have a great potential to control EGVM in sustainable viticulture. Further research in co-formulation with adjuvants is required to ensure their survival in the aboveground grapevine areas. The European grapevine moth (EGVM) Lobesia botrana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) is a relevant pest in the Palearctic region vineyards and is present in the Americas. Their management using biological control agents and environmentally friendly biotechnical tools would reduce intensive pesticide use. The entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) in the families Steinernematidae and Heterorhabditidae are well-known virulent agents against arthropod pests thanks to symbiotic bacteria in the genera Xenorhabdus and Photorhabdus (respectively) that produce natural products with insecticidal potential. Novel technological advances allow field applications of EPNs and those bioactive compounds as powerful bio-tools against aerial insect pests. This study aimed to determine the viability of four EPN species (Steinernema feltiae, S. carpocapsae, S. riojaense, and Heterorhabditis bacteriophora) as biological control agents against EGVM larval instars (L1, L3, and L5) and pupae. Additionally, the bioactive compounds from their four symbiotic bacteria (Xenorhabdus bovienii, X. nematophila, X. kozodoii, and Photorhabdus laumondii subsp. laumondii, respectively) were tested as unfiltered ferment (UF) and cell-free supernatant (CFS) against the EGVM larval instars L1 and L3. All of the EPN species showed the capability of killing EGVM during the larval and pupal stages, particularly S. carpocapsae (mortalities of ~50% for L1 and >75% for L3 and L5 in only two days), followed by efficacy by S. feltiae. Similarly, the bacterial bioactive compounds produced higher larval mortality at three days against L1 (>90%) than L3 (~50%), making the application of UF more virulent than the application of CFS. Our findings indicate that both steinernematid species and their symbiotic bacterial bioactive compounds could be considered for a novel agro-technological approach to control L. botrana in vineyards. Further research into co-formulation with adjuvants is required to expand their viability when implemented for aboveground grapevine application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Cages preventing access to birds were used to measure the rate of predation by birds in a spruce budworm population during the decline of an outbreak. Three species of budworm-feeding warblers were involved in this predation on larvae and pupae. It was found that bird predation is a very important source of mortality in declining spruce budworm populations, and that bird foraging behavior changes as budworm prey become rare at the end of the outbreak. The impact of avian predation on a declining population of the spruce budworm, Choristoneura fumifereana (Clem.), was measured using single-tree exclosure cages in a mature stand of balsam fir, Abies balsamea (L.), and white spruce, Picea glauca (Moench.) Voss. Bird population censuses and observations of foraging and nest-feeding activity were also made to determine the response of budworm-linked warblers to decreasing food availability. Seasonal patterns of foraging. as well as foraging success in the declining prey population was compared to similar information from birds observed in another stand where the spruce budworm population was rising. Avian predation was an important source of mortality between the 4th instar and moth emergence in the declining outbreak population. Mortality by predation increased from negligible to over 98% as budworm density dropped from 100 to <1 larva/kg of host foliage, over 3 years. Calculations based on nest-feeding activity and basic metabolic demands support these observed rates. Seasonal and yearly differences in predation rates observed between the two host-tree species correspond to equivalent shifts in bird foraging behavior in response to dropping insect density. In particular, a preference for searching on white spruce disappeared, although budworm-linked birds remained more efficient at finding food on this plant. The ability to change foraging behavior as prey density dropped differed between bird species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intestinal symbiotic bacteria have played an important role in the digestion, immunity detoxification, mating, and reproduction of insects during long-term coevolution. The oriental fruit moth, Grapholita molesta, is an important fruit tree pest worldwide. However, the composition of the G. molesta microbial community, especially of the gut microbiome, remains unclear. To explore the differences of gut microbiota of G. molesta when reared on different host plants, we determined the gut bacterial structure when G. molesta was transferred from an artificial diet to different host plants (apples, peaches, nectarines, crisp pears, plums, peach shoots) by amplicon sequencing technology. The results showed that Proteobacteria and Firmicutes are dominant in the gut microbiota of G. molesta. Plum-feeding G. molesta had the highest richness and diversity of gut microbiota, while apple-feeding G. molesta had the lowest. PCoA and PERMANOVA analysis revealed that there were significant differences in the gut microbiota structure of G. molesta on different diets. PICRUSt2 analysis indicated that most of the functional prediction pathways were concentrated in metabolic and cellular processes. Our results confirmed that gut bacterial communities of G. molesta can be influenced by host diets and may play an important role in host adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Proeulia auraria is a native and growing pest insect in fruit orchards in Chile, which calls for environmentally friendly management methods. Using synthetic pheromone compounds, we conducted field trials to optimize the septa load for monitoring adult moths. Using the optimized blend we studied the phenology of males in vineyards, apples, and blueberries, finding two large flight cycles lasting from September to May. Afterward, based on field trials, we concluded that 250 point sources loaded with a total of 78 g/ha of the pheromone blend, provided high disruption of male-female encounters for mating in all crops tested for at least 5 months. We concluded that mating disruption is feasible for P. auraria, needing now the development of a commercial product and of protocols to control this pest. The leafroller Proeulia auraria (Clarke) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) is a native, polyphagous, and growing pest of several fruit crops in Chile; it also has quarantine importance to several markets, thus tools for management are needed. Using synthetic pheromone compounds, we conducted field trials to optimize the blend for monitoring, and to determine the activity period of rubber septa aged under field conditions. We concluded that septa loaded with 200 μg of E11-14:OAc + 60 μg E11-14:OH allowed for efficient trap captures for up to 10 weeks. Using this blend, we studied the phenology of adult males in vineyards, apple, and blueberry orchards, identifying two long flight cycles per season, lasting from September to May and suggesting 2–3 generations during the season. No or low adult activity was observed during January and between late May and late August. Furthermore, mating disruption (MD) field trials showed that application of 250 pheromone point sources using the dispenser wax matrix SPLAT (Specialized Pheromone and Lure Application Technology, 10.5% pheromone) with a total of 78 g/ha of the blend described above resulted in trap shutdown immediately after application, and mating disruption >99% in all orchards for at least 5 months. We concluded that MD is feasible for P. auraria, needing now the development of a commercial product and the strategy (and protocols) necessary to control this pest in conventional and organic orchards in Chile. As far as we know, this is the first report on MD development against a South American tortricid pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Oxeye daisy, a Eurasian member of the daisy family, has become invasive in several parts of the world, including North America and Australia. We investigated whether a root-feeding moth found closely associated with oxeye daisy in Europe could be used as a biological control agent for the plant when weedy. We found that the moth could develop on 11 out of 74 plant species that we tested in laboratory conditions when it was given no choice of plants. When the moths were given a choice of food plants outdoors, we found its larvae only on the ornamentals Shasta daisy and creeping daisy. Larval feeding had no impact on the weight and number of flowers of Shasta daisy, but larval feeding and plant competition reduced both measurements for oxeye daisy. We conclude that it is safe to release the moth species because it will not affect the ornamental value of Shasta daisy or creeping daisy and because it is unlikely to harm any other economically important or native species. Based on the moth's preference for oxeye daisy, and that we expect it to contribute to the suppression of the weed, we propose its field release in North America and Australia. We evaluated the potential of the European root-feeding moth Dichrorampha aeratana as a biological control agent for the invasive weed Leucanthemum vulgare (oxeye daisy) in North America and Australia. The taxonomic proximity of the ornamental Shasta daisy (Leucanthemum × superbum) to L. vulgare and its popularity in North America made finding sufficiently host-specific biological control agents a challenge. No-choice tests conducted with 74 non-target species revealed partial or complete larval development on 11 species. In multiple-choice oviposition and larval development tests that were conducted in field cages, larvae were found on five of these, however in multiple-choice tests conducted under open-field conditions, larvae were only found on the ornamentals Shasta daisy and creeping daisy (Mauranthemum paludosum). Larval feeding by D. aeratana had no measurable impact on Shasta daisy, but larval feeding and plant competition reduced the biomass and number of flower heads of L. vulgare. We conclude that D. aeratana is a suitable biological control agent because it will not affect the ornamental value of Shasta or creeping daisies and because it is unlikely to feed on any other economically important or native species. We also expect D. aeratana to contribute to the suppression of L. vulgare populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Adult codling moth (Cydia pomonella L.) monitoring with lure-baited traps is a prerequisite to effectively manage this key pest in apple and pear crops without over-spraying insecticides. We evaluated new multi-component lures comprised of blends of sex pheromone and volatile organic compounds (pear ester, dimethyl nonatriene and linalool oxide) loaded into different substrates (septa and PVC lures). Acetic acid in a second membrane lure was used as a co-lure with all blends. Lure comparisons were performed during the period 2019/2020 in Italy and Washington State (USA) in orchards treated with or without sex pheromone dispensers for mating disruption. The highest total moth counts occurred with the sex pheromone/pear ester PVC lure in both countries. The new multi-component PVC lure without sex pheromone captured the greatest number of female moths only in the USA. This geographical disparity may limit the effectiveness of using a 'female removal' strategy to manage this pest without insecticides across major production areas. Studies were conducted during the period 2019/2020 to evaluate the effectiveness of four lures for codling moth (Cydia pomonella L.) in pome fruits in Italy and the USA. Multi-component blends of sex pheromone ((E,E)-8,10-dodecadien-1-ol, PH), pear ester ((E,Z)-2,4-ethyl decadienoate, PE), (E)-4,8-dimethyl-1,3,7-nonatriene (DMNT), and pyranoid linalool oxide (6-ethenyl-2,2,6-trimethyloxan-3-ol, LOX) were loaded in either a halobutyl elastomer septum or a PVC matrix and always used in combination with acetic acid (AA) loaded in a closed membrane co-lure. Total moth capture was significantly greater with the PVC than the septum lure loaded with PH/PE + AA in both countries. Female capture in the USA study was significantly greater for 8 weeks in traps baited with the PE/DMNT/LOX blend + AA co-lure than with other lures and adding PH to this blend in a PVC lure significantly reduced female capture. In contrast, female capture in Italy did not differ among lures and counts were similar in both apple and pear crops treated with or without mating disruption. These results suggest that the effectiveness of 'female removal' strategies to manage codling moth may be geographically limited and further comparisons are needed in other production regions and in walnut. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Codling moth is a major pest of apples, and was accidentally introduced into New Zealand over 150 years ago. Many countries that New Zealand exports apples to do not have codling moth present and they want to keep it out. Therefore, apple growers must heavily control codling moth populations on their orchards. Currently, the main control tactics are insecticide applications and mating disruption, which uses the moth's own sex pheromone to make the males unable to find females to mate. We aimed to supplement these tactics with the sterile insect technique (SIT) to further suppress the codling moth on orchards. SIT involves mass rearing and sterilizing codling moth and then releasing them onto orchards where they mate with wild insects resulting in no offspring. We released sterile insects onto seven orchards using unmanned aerial vehicles and ground releases. Six years of the program saw significant drops (90–99%) in wild moth populations. The SIT is an excellent tactic for reducing moth populations in export apple orchards. Codling moth was introduced into New Zealand, and remains a critical pest for the apple industry. Apples exported to some markets require strict phytosanitary measures to eliminate the risk of larval infestation. Mating disruption and insecticide applications are the principal means of suppression in New Zealand. We tested the potential for the sterile insect technique (SIT) to supplement these measures to achieve local eradication or suppression of this pest. SIT was trialed in an isolated group of six integrated fruit production (IFP) orchards and one organic orchard (total 391 ha), using sterilized insects imported from Canada, with release by unmanned aerial vehicle and from the ground. Eradication was not achieved across the region, but a very high level of codling moth suppression was achieved at individual orchards after the introduction of sterile moths in combination with mating disruption and larvicides. After six years of releases, catches of wild codling moths at three IFP orchards (224 ha) were 90–99% lower than in 2013–2014, the year before releases began. Catches at three other IFP orchards (129 ha) decreased by 67–97% from the year before releases began (2015–2016), from lower initial levels. At a certified organic orchard with a higher initial population under only organic larvicides and mating disruption, by 2019–2020, there was an 81% reduction in wild moths capture from 2016–2017, the year before releases began. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The European grapevine moth Lobesia botrana is the most important carpophagous pest in European vineyards. Synthetic insecticides are usually applied for moth control, but their impact on human health and environmental quality requires a reduction in their usage. The exploitation of the side effects of inorganic fungicides of natural origin repeatedly used during the growing season can contribute to achieve this goal. In this study, a possible effect on L. botrana infestation of sulfur dust applied to control powdery mildew is tested under laboratory and field conditions. Sulfur dust reduced egg laying by around 80% in both laboratory and field bioassays. In the laboratory, the product showed a slight contact toxicity on eggs and reduced larval settlement. A single field application of sulfur dust during L. botrana egg laying reduced larval infestation by approximately 40%. No adverse effects were observed on the predatory phytoseiid mite Kampimodromus aberrans. To reduce the impact of synthetic insecticides on human health and the environment, eco-friendly alternatives must be investigated. Knowledge of the side effects on pests and natural enemies of natural products applied to vineyards is very useful. Sulfur dust, which is used in vineyards to control powdery mildew, is investigated in laboratory and field bioassays for its effects on Lobesia botrana egg laying, egg hatching, and larval settlement. In field trials, the efficacy of sulfur dust against the two L. botrana carpophagous generations is compared with that of Bacillus thuringiensis and kaolin, and its side effects on the phytoseiid mite Kampimodromus aberrans are evaluated. In the bioassays, sulfur dust reduced female survival by 43%, egg laying by around 80%, egg hatching by 10%, and larval settlement by 55%. In field trials, sulfur dust caused a significant decrease in the number of L. botrana larval nests of both generations, even though the efficacy was lower than that of B. thuringiensis. No negative effects of sulfur dust on the predatory mite population density was observed. On the basis of these results, in the context of Integrated Pest Management strategies in vineyards, the activity of sulfur dust against L. botrana could be exploited by timing its application to the beginning of egg laying. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Investigations were performed in 2018–2019 in chestnut groves in northern Italy to monitor the seasonal flight activity of Pammene fasciana (L.), Cydia fagiglandana (Zeller), and C.splendana (Hübner) with pheromone-baited traps. Commercially available and experimental pheromone blends were tested. Newly formed chestnut husks and fruits were randomly collected to evaluate damage. Damage was correlated with trap catches. P. fasciana was present in all the sites, while Cydia species were recorded in three of six sites, with differences in abundance related to pheromone blends studied. Several morphologically similar non-target species occurred, highlighting the risk of overestimating catches. Fruit damage did not correlate with trap captures, suggesting that monitoring probably underestimates the true size of the moths' populations. These data contribute to ascertaining the presence of tortrix moths in northern Italian chestnut groves, and are important for planning specific control measures. (1) Background: Pammene fasciana (L.), Cydia fagiglandana (Zeller), and C. splendana (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) are considered key moth pests of chestnut in Europe. (2) Methods: Investigations were performed in 2018–2019 in northern Italy. Sticky traps and commercially available pheromones were used for monitoring; moreover, two experimental pheromone blends were tested. All specimens were identified according to male genitalia and molecular analyses. Newly formed chestnut husks and fruits were randomly collected to evaluate the presence of larvae and/or feeding damage, by comparing it to trap catches. (3) Results: P. fasciana was present in all the sites, whereas Cydia species were recorded in three sites of six, with differences in abundance related to pheromone blends studied. Several non-target species, such as Oegoconia novimundi (Busck) and Cydia ilipulana (Walsingham), were present. Data about the seasonal flight activity are provided. (4) Conclusions: This research contributes to ascertaining the presence and abundance of tortrix moths in Italian chestnut groves, and the presence of non-target species highlights the risk of overestimating catches. Fruit damage recorded did not always reflect catches made by pheromone traps, suggesting that monitoring may underestimate the real size of moths' populations. All of the data acquired are important for planning specific control measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Matsumuraeses phaseoli is a Lepidopteran pest that primarily feeds on numerous species of cultivated legumes, such as Glycine and Phaseolus. It is widely distributed in northeast Asia. A novel granulovirus, designated as Matsumuraeses phaseoli granulovirus (MaphGV), was isolated from pathogenic M. phaseoli larvae that dwell in rolled leaves of Astragalus membranaceus, a Chinese medicinal herb. In this study, using next-generation sequencing, we report the complete genome of MaphGV. MaphGV genome comprises a double-stranded DNA of 116,875 bp, with 37.18% GC content. It has 128 hypothetical open reading frames (ORFs). Among them, 38 are baculovirus core genes, 18 are lepidopteran baculovirus conserved genes, and 5 are unique to Baculoviridae. MaphGV has one baculovirus repeat ORF (bro) and three inhibitors of apoptosis proteins (iap), including a newfound iap-6. We found two atypical baculoviral homologous regions (hrs) and four direct repeats (drs) in the MaphGV genome. Based on phylogenetic analysis, MaphGV belongs to Clade b of Betabaculovirus and is closely related to Cydia pomonellagranulovirus (CpGV) and Cryptophlebia leucotretagranulovirus (CrleGV). This novel baculovirus discovery and sequencing are invaluable in understanding the evolution of baculovirus and MaphGV may be a potential biocontrol agent against the bean ravaging pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The growing interest in the development of green pest management strategies is leading to the exploitation of essential oils (EOs) as promising botanical pesticides. In this respect, nanotechnology could efficiently support the use of EOs through their encapsulation into stable nanoformulations, such as nanoemulsions (NEs), to improve their stability and efficacy. This technology assures the improvement of the chemical stability, hydrophilicity, and environmental persistence of EOs, giving an added value for the fabrication of natural insecticides effective against a wide spectrum of insect vectors and pests of public and agronomical importance. Carlina acaulis (Asteraceae) root EO has been recently proposed as a promising ingredient of a new generation of botanical insecticides. In the present study, a highly stable C. acaulis-based NE was developed. Interestingly, such a nanosystem was able to encapsulate 6% (w/w) of C. acaulis EO, showing a mean diameter of around 140 nm and a SOR (surfactant-to-oil ratio) of 0.6. Its stability was evaluated in a storage period of six months and corroborated by an accelerated stability study. Therefore, the C. acaulis EO and C. acaulis-based NE were evaluated for their toxicity against 1st instar larvae of the European grapevine moth (EGVM), Lobesia botrana (Denis & Schiffermüller, 1775) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), a major vineyard pest. The chemical composition of C. acaulis EO was investigated by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) revealing carlina oxide, a polyacetylene, as the main constituent. In toxicity assays, both the C. acaulis EO and the C. acaulis-based NE were highly toxic to L. botrana larvae, with LC50 values of 7.299 and 9.044 µL/mL for C. acaulis EO and NE, respectively. The C. acaulis-based NE represents a promising option to develop highly stable botanical insecticides for pest management. To date, this study represents the first evidence about the insecticidal toxicity of EOs and EO-based NEs against this major grapevine pest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: The family Tortricidae includes approximately 11,500 species of small moths, many of which are economically important pests worldwide. A large number of tortricid species have been inadvertently introduced into North America from Eurasia, and many have the potential to inflict considerable negative economic and ecological impacts. Because native species behave differently than introduced species, it is critical to distinguish between the two. Unfortunately, this can be a difficult task. In the past, many tortricids discovered in North America were assumed to be the same as their Eurasian counterparts, i.e., Holarctic. Using DNA sequence data, morphological characters, food plants, and historical records, we analyzed the origin of 151 species of Tortricidae present in North America. The results indicate that the number of Holarctic species has been overestimated by at least 20%. We also determined that the number of introduced tortricids in North America is unexpectedly high compared other families, with tortricids accounting for approximately 23–30% of the total number of moth and butterfly species introduced to North America. This suggests that introduced tortricids have a greater potential of becoming economically important pests than moths in other families, and why distinguishing Holarctic from introduced species is critical to American agriculture. In support of a comprehensive update to the checklist of the moths of North America, we attempt to determine the status of 151 species of Tortricidae present in North America that may be Holarctic, introduced, or sibling species of their European counterparts. Discovering the natural distributions of these taxa is often difficult, if not impossible, but several criteria can be applied to determine if a species that is present in both Europe and North America is natively Holarctic, introduced, or represented by different but closely related species on each continent. We use DNA barcodes (when available), morphology, host plants, and historical records (literature and museum specimens) to make these assessments and propose several taxonomic changes, as well as future areas of research. The following taxa are raised from synonymy to species status: Acleris ferrumixtana (Benander, 1934), stat. rev.; Acleris viburnana (Clemens, 1860), stat. rev.; Acleris pulverosana (Walker, 1863), stat. rev.; Acleris placidana (Robinson, 1869), stat. rev.; Lobesia spiraeae (McDunnough, 1938), stat. rev.; and Epiblema arctica Miller, 1985, stat. rev. Cydia saltitans (Westwood, 1858), stat. rev., is determined to be the valid name for the "jumping bean moth," and Phiaris glaciana (Möschler, 1860), comb. n., is placed in a new genus. We determine that the number of Holarctic species has been overestimated by at least 20% in the past, and that the overall number of introduced species in North America is unexpectedly high, with Tortricidae accounting for approximately 23–30% of the total number of Lepidoptera species introduced to North America. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Grapholita funebrana is a main pest of plum throughout the Palearctic region. The management of this pest is generally carried out with chemical insecticides. In this study we investigated the suitability of the mating disruption as alternative method of control of this pest. Experiments were carried out in organic plum orchards during 2012 and 2014. Trap catches and fruit sampling were carried out to estimate the efficacy of this technique in reducing males catch and fruit infestation. The results indicated that the males caught in traps placed in the treatment plots was always significantly lower than untreated plots. The chemical analysis of the pheromone emission from the dispenser, carried out by solid-phase micro-extraction followed by gas chromatography, indicated an optimal duration of these tool for at least 60 days of field exposure. Fruit sampling evidenced that pheromone treatment significantly reduced fruit infestation, but not economic damage, particularly on the cultivar for which a high susceptibility to the moth infestation is known. Control of the plum fruit moth, Grapholita funebrana Treitschke (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), has been mainly based on the use of chemical insecticides, which can cause undesirable side effects, leading to a growing interest towards alternative sustainable strategies. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of the mating disruption technique on G. funebrana infestation in plum orchards, by comparing the number of male captures in pheromone-baited traps, and evaluating the damage to fruits in plots treated with the pheromone dispersers and in control plots. The study was carried out in 2012 and 2014 in three organic plum orchards, on the cultivars Angeleno, Friar, President and Stanley. To evaluate the pheromone emission curve of the dispensers from the openings to the end of the trials, a chemical analysis was carried out by solid phase micro-extraction followed by gas chromatography, followed by mass spectrometry. In all years and orchards the mean number of males caught in traps placed in the treatment plots was always significantly lower than untreated plots. Pheromone emission from the dispensers was highest at the opening, and was still considerable at 54 days of field exposure, while it significantly decreased after 72 days of field exposure. Cultivar was confirmed to be an essential factor in determining the fruit infestation level. Pheromone treatment significantly reduced fruit infestation, but not economic damage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Monitoring oriental fruit moth Grapholita molesta Busck (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), populations based on counts in sex pheromone-baited traps within sex pheromone-treated orchards for mating disruption (MD) is challenging since male orientation to traps is disrupted. In this study, we evaluated a new commercial pheromone–kairomone combination lure for G. molesta (Pherocon® OFM Combo™ Dual™), which combines the G. molesta and Cydia pomonella L. sex pheromones with a blend of acetic acid and terpinyl acetate. Trap comparisons were performed in 33 trials in peach and nectarine orchards under MD (24) or non-MD (9) during the 2018–2019 period in Italy. Male and total moth captures in traps baited with the combination lure were significantly greater than in traps with G. molesta pheromone in both years and across both pheromone treatments. The proportion of females in the total moth captures using the combination lure averaged ca. 7% across all trials. The by-catch of non-targets, i.e., Apis mellifera L., was low in traps baited either with the combination and the sex pheromone lure, while trap color (white) affected the capture of beneficials but not of the target pest. Our study proves that this combination lure can improve the monitoring and management for G. molesta in stone fruits. New studies are needed to define action thresholds to trigger supplemental control methods to MD. Secondly, female-based monitoring lures should be further developed to improve management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mating disruption (MD) is widely used against the European grapevine moth (EGVM), Lobesia botrana (Denis and Schiffermüller; Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), by installing passive dispensers or aerosol devices. The present work reports a new sampling and quantification methodology to obtain absolute data about field airborne pheromone concentration based on air samplings and sensitive chromatographic-spectroscopic methods. Samplings were performed in fields treated with passive dispensers or aerosol devices at different moments throughout the crop cycle to study how they act and how the disruption is triggered. Moreover, pheromone adsorption and releasing capacity of vine leaves were studied to elucidate their role in the disruption. Although both types of dispensers were effective in limiting the damage inflicted by EGVM, they performed differently and provided different airborne pheromone concentration profiles. Results also proved that leaves were able to adsorb and release part of the airborne pheromone acting as subsequent and additional pheromone sources. This fact could explain the different concentration profiles. Moreover, our results suggest that lower pheromone emission than that of the current passive dispensers still could provide an adequate performance in the field. Competitive mechanisms involved in MD using both dispensers, the dynamics of the airborne pheromone throughout the time and the importance of the canopy are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), is a major pest introduced to almost all main pome fruit production regions worldwide. This species was detected in Chile during the last decade of the 19th century, and now has a widespread distribution in all major apple-growing regions. We performed an analysis of the genetic variability and structure of codling moth populations in Chile using five microsatellite markers. We sampled the codling moth along the main distribution area in Chile on all its main host-plant species. Low genetic differentiation among the population samples (FST = 0.03) was found, with only slight isolation by distance. According to a Bayesian assignment test (TESS), a group of localities in the coastal mountain range from the Bío-Bío Region formed a distinct genetic cluster. Our results also suggest that the codling moth that invaded the southernmost locality (Aysén Region) had two origins from central Chile and another unknown source. We did not find significant genetic differentiation between codling moth samples from different host-plant species. Our results indicate high genetic exchange among codling moth populations between the different Chilean regions and host plants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Codling moth, Cydia pomonella (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), is a phytosanitary pest of New Zealand's export apples. The sterile insect technique supplements other controls in an eradication attempt at an isolated group of orchards in Hawke's Bay, New Zealand. There has been no attempt in New Zealand to characterize potential sources of uncontrolled peri-urban populations, which we predicted to be larger than in managed orchards. We installed 200 pheromone traps across Hastings city, which averaged 0.32 moths/trap/week. We also mapped host trees around the pilot eradication orchards and installed 28 traps in rural Ongaonga, which averaged 0.59 moths/trap/week. In Hastings, traps in host trees caught significantly more males than traps in non-host trees, and spatial interpolation showed evidence of spatial clustering. Traps in orchards operating the most stringent codling moth management averaged half the catch rate of Hastings peri-urban traps. Orchards with less rigorous moth control had a 5-fold higher trap catch rate. We conclude that peri-urban populations are significant and ubiquitous, and that special measures to reduce pest prevalence are needed to achieve area-wide suppression and reduce the risk of immigration into export orchards. Because the location of all host trees in Hastings is not known, it could be more cost-effectively assumed that hosts are ubiquitous across the city and the area treated accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]