Pest Control by Attractants: A Case Study Demonstrating Economy, Specificity, and Environmental Acceptability

Abstract

Attractants have had a major role in preventing establishment of the oriental fruit fly, Dacus dorsalis and two other tephritid species which are dangerous agricultural pests present in large numbers in Hawaii. Despite quarantine barriers, transport via travelers or commodities has caused introduction of the oriental fruit fly into southern California in 1960, 1966, 1969, 1970, and 1971 and into Florida in 1964 and 1969. A new formulation of a nonpersistent pesticide with an attractant and a thixotropic carrier has allowed public agencies to economically prevent establishment of the pest without resorting to extensive use of insecticides or compromising the protection of a multimillion dollar industry.