Simultaneous mating disruption of two moth pests of the vineyard (Lobesia botrana and Cryptoblabes gnidiella) through a biodegradable sex pheromone dispenser

Renato Ricciardi ¹, Livia De Fazi ¹, Giordana D'Anna ¹

⁰Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, Via del Borghetto 80, 56124, Pisa, Italy.

Environmental Science and Pollution Research International +

|

June 24, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

This study shows that a new pheromone dispenser effectively manages two key grape pests, Lobesia botrana and Cryptoblabes gnidiella, in vineyards. Simultaneous mating disruption (MD) significantly reduced infestations, offering a promising sustainable pest control strategy.

Area Of Science

Agricultural Entomology
Pest Management
Sustainable Viticulture

Background

Lobesia botrana and Cryptoblabes gnidiella are significant threats to Mediterranean wine production.
Pheromone-based mating disruption (MD) is an increasingly adopted strategy for insect pest management in agriculture.

Purpose Of The Study

To evaluate the efficacy of a novel biodegradable dispenser for the simultaneous mating disruption of L. botrana and C. gnidiella.
To assess the impact of different dispenser doses and grape varieties on pest control effectiveness.

Main Methods

Field trials conducted over two years in Apulia and Tuscany, Italy.
Testing of an experimental dispenser (Isonet® L CG-BIOX235) at varying doses (300, 400, 500 dispensers/ha).
Evaluation of infestation levels on Aglianico, Syrah, and Viognier grape varieties compared to an untreated control.

Main Results

Significant reduction in L. botrana infestation (percentage of infested bunches, nests per bunch) compared to controls.
Demonstrated reduction in C. gnidiella infestation, though its occurrence varied.
Efficacy observed across different tested doses and grape varieties.

Conclusions

The experimental dispenser enables simultaneous mating disruption of L. botrana and C. gnidiella.
Further research into C. gnidiella biology is needed to optimize mating disruption efficacy.
The findings support the potential for integrated pest management in viticulture using combined pheromone dispensers.

Keywords:

Biodegradable dispenser IPM Monitoring Phycitinae Pyralidae Tortricidae