Pheromone trapping to monitor Hessian fly (Mayetiola destructor) populations

Due to the infrequent and cryptic nature of Hessian fly outbreaks, there often is a lack of basic information on seasonal abundance and geographic distribution, making good management decisions difficult. The recently identified Hessian fly sex pheromone is a potential tool for improving our ability to monitor populations. During the growing seasons of 2008 and 2009, sex-pheromone baited traps were placed in or near wheat fields at six locations across the state of North Dakota. The traps were checked weekly from early May until late October. The research established the geographic distribution and seasonal abundance of Hessian fly within the state of North Dakota. Seasonal abundance was characterized by emergence taking place from early May until October. Peak Hessian fly emergence occurred in late July to early August. Unexpectedly the peak of Hessian fly emergence did not coincide well with either the spring or fall sown cereal crops.