Determining reproductive potential of Amyelois transitella to improve integrated pest management

Amyelois transitella (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) is a primary pest of almonds and pistachios, as well as a secondary pest of walnuts in California. In each cropping system, the fecundity of A. transitella populations ultimately determines potential damage for each generation. Previous studies have determined fecundity of this pest on different hosts, however, results have been highly variable. The objective of this study was to measure fecundity from field-collected females and compare results to colony-reared females from different host diets. Results from this research offer insight into the reproductive capacity of this pest and may facilitate more accurate sanitation practices and thresholds to improve A. transitella integrated pest management in different cropping systems.