Pheromone trapping protocols for the Asian palm weevil, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Coleoptera: Curculionidae)

Abstract

Protocols for pheromone-based mass-trapping of the Asian palm weevil, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier), are presented. The aggregation pheromone, ferrugineol (4-methyl-5-nonanol) released at 3 mg per 24 h was numerically, but not statistically, superior to lower doses, and this rate is recommended for operational trapping programmes. Trap captures were maximized by placing traps at ground level or 2 m high. Vane traps were superior to bucket traps. Insecticide free traps containing funnels to prevent weevil escape were equally as effective as traps using insecticide to retain weevils. Synergism between ferrugineol and host palm volatiles was demonstrated and necessitates the inclusion of palm material in traps for maximum trapping efficacy. Both the Asian palm weevil and coconut rhinoceros beetle, Oryctes rhinoceros, were captured in the same traps without interference between their respective pheromones. These results have led in part to pheromone-based mass-trapping of the Asian palm weevil throughout the Middle East where the weevil is a serious introduced pest of date palms. Keywords: Rhynchophorus FerrugineusFerrugineolRhynchophorinaePheromone Trapping