Aerosol mating disruption for the navel orangeworm (Amyelois transitella): characterization and optimization

The navel orangeworm Amyelois transitella (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) is the principal insect pest of almonds and pistachios in California, and an important pest of walnuts and figs. Currently control of this pest by mating disruption is accomplished with a timed aerosol mega-dispenser, using a single, non-attractive component of the sex pheromone. Discussion will be presented of experiments and data that relate field observations with predictions from the current theoretical framework, and seek to increase cost-effectiveness of aerosol mating disruption for this pest.