Advancing codling moth mating disruption: Part 3–temperature-dependent effects

An independent test of the theoretical framework laid out in Part 1 was conducted. Males were released into previously described cages and their recapture in a single pheromone-baited trap was recorded daily. Concurrently, male moth survivorship within these cages was measured, and response of males from this population to a 0.1 mg pheromone lure was measured in a wind tunnel at the field site. We also recorded temperatures at the field site at 15 min intervals throughout the experiment. Through literature searches, and evidence from flight tunnel observations, we determined that temperatures below 16 C during the flight period were prohibitive to male flight. We used temperature data, survivorship data and male moth responsiveness data to predict nightly catch of male moths. When temperature was included, these factors accurately predicted actual catch. When temperature was not included, actual catch was not accurately predicted. Temperature during the flight window is critical in codling moth responses to pheromone. Temperature should be monitored and considered in interpretation of field data, as poor flight conditions overlaying critical points in experimentation can drastically affect outcomes.