Sex pheromone traps for detection of the invasive box tree moth in Italy

Abstract

The efficacy of sex pheromone traps for Cydalima perspectalis (Walker) (Lepidoptera Crambidae) box tree moth (BTM) was assessed in 2013 and 2014 in North East Italy (Parco Giardino Sigurtà, Valeggio sul Mincio, Verona). In 2013 male moths were trapped during their last flight of the year. In 2014 monitoring performed from May to October highlighted three flight peaks. In the same period the development of preimaginal stages on infested plants was checked. In the study area, according to these field samplings and males trapping, BTM moth undergoes three generations with overwintering as young larva. Sex pheromone traps to assess the spread of this invasive moth into new areas and to identify the correct time of control treatments will be a useful tool for integrated pest management (IPM).