Helicoverpa genus on the edge of the continental U.S.: Flight phenology, analysis of hybrid presence, and insecticide performance in high-input field crops in Puerto Rico

The genus Helicoverpa includes several agricultural pests globally. armigera was reported in countries South America 2013, and Puerto Rico, 2014. This territory is considered an hub, with a high-input system of seed production the southern region island, also at edge continental U.S. Possible natural dispersion populations H. from Caribbean or other Central American regions poses continuing risk to study performed during post-detection scenario 2018 2021. A year-round pheromone trapping program adult males indicated increase population October March differences occurrence spp. between municipalities Juan Diaz Salinas. proportion / zea detection congeneric hybrids these species were assessed based on genital morphology DNA analysis. Interestingly, neither nor expected detected present study. susceptibility insecticides Spinetoram, Emamectin benzoate, Chlorantraniliprole, Esfenvalerate assessed, overall significant effect insecticide detected. Chlorantraniliprole benzoate had highest efficacy. These results contribute Integrated Pest Management Insect resistance management programs Rico. In addition, provide validated information be mitigation plans, invasion