Evaluating trapping methods to increase earwig capture in temperate tree fruit crops.

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Entomology
• Pest Management
• Biological Control

Background:

• The European earwig (Forficula auricularia) exhibits a dual role in temperate fruit crops, acting as a pest in stone fruits and a beneficial predator in pome fruits.
• Growers utilize earwig trapping for pest control and augmentative biological control, necessitating efficient monitoring techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate and identify optimal designs and deployment strategies for corrugated cardboard traps used in monitoring European earwigs in orchards.
• To evaluate the impact of trap materials, size, placement, duration, and lures/baits on earwig capture efficacy.

Main Methods:

• Comparative trials were conducted using various trap materials (cardboard, plastic), sizes, and placements (trunk, base, branches).
• The efficacy of different lures and baits, including fish sauce, was assessed.
• The influence of trap duration in the field on earwig catch was examined.

Main Results:

• Corrugated cardboard traps significantly outperformed plastic traps in earwig capture.
• Optimal trap length for earwig capture plateaued at approximately 30 cm.
• Traps positioned on the main tree trunk yielded higher catches than those on branches or at the base.
• Most lures and baits did not improve trap efficacy, with fish sauce showing inconsistent results.
• Extended trap duration in the field appeared to increase earwig capture, potentially due to pheromone accumulation.

Conclusions:

• The standard, unbaited corrugated cardboard trap remains the most effective and practical option for monitoring European earwigs.
• Strategic placement on the main trunk and extended field duration are recommended for maximizing earwig trapping efficiency in orchards.