The caterpillar of the moth Duponchelia fovealis is a troublesome pest affecting various crops. While the adult moths don't cause direct damage, the caterpillars can severely harm crops. These caterpillars hide in and around the soil and roots of plants, making them difficult to control. As a polyphagous pest, it targets a wide range of plants and is frequently found in ornamental crops like gerbera, alstroemeria, rose, and various potted plants, as well as in small fruits and fruit vegetables, such as strawberries and peppers.
Life cycle and damage profile
The female moth lays between 200 to 300 eggs, typically in small clusters on the underside of leaves, near the substrate surface. Once the eggs hatch, the young caterpillars feed on both dead and living plant material.
In potted plants, the caterpillars often target the roots, resulting in growth inhibition, wilting, and increased vulnerability to root pathogens. In cut flowers, the damage appears in the flower tissue, directly affecting marketability. In strawberries and peppers, young plants can be completely devoured, while older plants exhibit feeding damage to the stem base and fruit set.
Detection and monitoring
Effective control of Duponchelia fovealis begins with early detection of the adult moths. HortiPro suggests using PheroDup pheromones in combination with HortiPro delta traps and/or sticky traps to monitor and manage the presence of these pests.
For effective monitoring, HortiPro advises hanging at least 10 delta traps with PheroDup pheromones per hectare. To accurately track population development, they recommend placing at least 20 delta traps with pheromones per hectare. "Distribute these delta traps strategically across the area to be scouted and check them regularly to get a clear picture of what is happening in the garden," they suggest.
Features of PheroDup Pheromone
The PheroDup pheromone attracts both male and female moths, providing growers and advisors with a clearer understanding of the population dynamics. The pheromone is effective for 6 to 8 weeks, offering extended monitoring. Additionally, the pheromone dispenser can be handled without gloves, though it's important to keep the cap on the dispenser.
The PheroDup pheromone comes in a resealable aluminum package containing 10 pieces. It is recommended to store the pheromones in the freezer at -18°C, where they have a shelf life of 2 years, or in the refrigerator at 4°C for a shorter shelf life.
Technical specifications HortiPro Delta Trap
Specially designed slanted side flaps enhance airflow and increase the distribution range of the pheromone. For optimum performance, the delta traps and their adhesive bases feature a 14 mm hole where the PheroDup protrudes 1 to 1.5 cm above the adhesive layer. HortiPro emphasizes that using delta traps results in less "contamination" from other insects, such as whiteflies, thrips, and leaf miners, compared to sticky traps.
Application in practice
- Placement: Strategically distribute the delta traps throughout the greenhouse, preferably in spots where higher pest pressure is suspected (such as warm, moist zones).
- Inspection: Timely replace the sticky base or regularly remove caught moths to maintain catch capacity.
- Monitoring Frequency: Check for captures at least once a week (on a fixed day) to properly track pest development.
- Combination with IPM Strategy: Early capture data can be used for the targeted deployment of biological controllers or curative measures.
For more information:
Eric Kerklaan and Lennart Simonse
HortiPro
[email protected]
www.hortipro.com