Laboratory investigation of pheromone pre‐exposure in <i>Lobesia botrana</i> males indicates minor role of desensitization in the field

Abstract The role of desensitization in mating disruption (MD) European Grapevine Moth (EGVM), Lobesia botrana (Dennis and Schiffermüller) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), is studied by exposing males to different airborne pheromone concentrations for various time intervals prior evaluate their behavioural response. By using types dispensers, male moths are exposed three decreasing (up the minimum concentration able desensitize them) 1, 3, 24 h. present all treatments accurately quantified gas chromatography–mass spectrometry equipment compare these data with actual under field conditions. effect exposure on L. wind tunnel electroantennogram assays, immediately h after period. Results show that reduction response depended dose duration treatment, but lowest tested did not produce desensitization. These results support most important mechanisms MD acting fields treated against EGVM competitive ones non‐competitive only may become relevant very close dispensers. Our hypothesis cross‐adaptation other chemical stimuli pre‐exposed although more studies needed draw stronger conclusions.