Traps as a detection tool for low density Asian longhorned beetle populations in Worcester, Massachusetts using pheromone and kairomone blends

Development of an effective trapping system to detect Anoplophora glabripennis (Motschulsky, 1853), the Asian longhorned beetle (ALB), has been a goal of the USDA eradication program since beetles were discovered in New York City in 1996. Without eradication, ALB is estimated to kill 30% of all urban trees resulting in $669 billion in losses. Trapping is a cost effective, efficient means for locating ALB infestations over large geographic areas. In the summer of 2011, 500 traps were hung in Worcester, MA in spatially balanced transects of 50 traps spaced 100 meters apart. The goal of this project was to test low and high release rates of MP and various combinations of maple plant volatiles. Traps contained a two component male produced pheromone (MP) and combinations of maple volatiles (±)-linalool, (Z)-3-hexen-1-ol, linalool oxide, β-caryophyllene and trans-pinocarveol. Addition of plant volatiles to MP significantly increased catches of virgin females in Worcester and China during previous field seasons. A total of 23 beetles including 21 females and 2 males were caught in 2011. The MP plus a 3-component maple plant volatile mix caught the most beetles. This summer, 390 traps were hung in Worcester, MA in areas where ALB has been problematic and beyond surveyed areas. Traps contained high and low release rates of MP with and without the 3-component maple plant volatile mix. Maple plant volatiles were also tested alone without MP. Our results indicate traps are able to provide useful information of the location of ALB for eradication efforts.