Further Investigations on Puffer Performance in Codling Moth Mating Disruption: Implications of Pheromone Load and Aerosol Form, and Upwind Movement of Males

High dose aerosol emitters of pheromone, “puffers”, have been used successfully for over 15 years for control of codling moth in pears, and more recently have emerged as the leading mating disruption strategy in walnuts. While their efficacy is well documented, the mechanisms by which they operate are still not properly understood. Understanding how this type of dispenser works may provide opportunities for improving program performance as well as decreasing overall costs. During 2009 and 2010, a series of studies were conducted which attempted to define the area of influence of the pheromone plume from a puffer; understand its impact on mate location; and enhance our understanding of the effects of secondary pheromone release from foliage. Furthermore, in 2010 we conducted preliminary studies that aimed to determine how the pheromone content (ai) in the puffers affects the area of influence of the puffers; evaluate within-orchard movement of codling moth with and without the presence of a puffer; and compare the plumes from aerosol devices and passive dispensers with similar pheromone emission rates. In 2011 we have focused our efforts on the development of an extensive comparison of plumes generated by puffers loaded with different concentrations of codling moth sex pheromone, and a high emitting passive device; and evaluation of upwind attraction of codling moth males to puffers under field conditions. Data from both walnuts and pears are presented collectively since the larger combined datasets allow for more meaningful inferences.