Pheromone Monitoring Lure for Bactrocera cucurbitae, The Melon Fly
Considered native to India, B. cucurbitae, The Melon Fly, is now found in more than 40 countries. The potential risk of its introduction to a new area is facilitated by an increase in international tourism and trade, and is influenced by changes in climate and land use. After introduction, it can easily disperse due to its high reproductive potential, high biotic potential (short life cycle of 3-5 weeks, up to 10 generations of offspring per year), and a rapid dispersal ability.
It is a very serious pest of cucurbit crops and has been recorded on over 125 plants, including members of families; however, many of those records were based on casual observation of adults resting on plants or caught in traps set in non-host trees. In common with some other species of subgenus Bactrocera, it can attack flowers as well as fruit and will sometimes attack stem and root tissue.
Available singly, price discounts for bulk orders. Prices on application.
Description
Directions for use
The McPhail or Dome Trap is recommended for this species. A number of different types of traps can also be used. Monitoring can be made all year round though this will depend more on the season for the fruit being protected. Cuelure is structurally related to the sex pheromone that female melon flies produce to attract males for mating. The modified pheromone is a more potent attractant than the natural pheromone. Open the hermetically sealed sachet containing the attractant lure and place the lure in the hanging basket which then clips into the holder on the underside of lid of trap. The traps should be placed at head height on the outside of the tree canopy with at least 30m between each trap. Use traps at a density of 5 per hectare in small or non- uniform orchards and at a density of 2 per hectare in large uniform plantings. The traps should be placed in the orchard immediately before fruit formation. The trap should be cleaned regularly and the attractant lures changed at 2-3 months intervals. Catches should be recorded weekly or more frequently in groves with high populations. Interpretation of catch records for timing control measures will vary from country to country. Consult your local agricultural advisory service for precise recommendations.
Storage Instructions
This product is sealed in impermeable packaging for storage and shipping. Keep product away from direct sunlight, heat, sparks and open flame. The dispensers and systems should be kept under good storage conditions below 15°C when the dispensers will retain their activity and attraction for a minimum of 18 months. Bulk storage of dispensers for periods of up to 24 months is possible by refrigeration at temperatures of 4°C or below. Keep dispensers inside their sealed packaging until use.
| Latin Name | Bactrocera cucurbitae |
|---|---|
| Common Name | Melon Fly |
| Pheromone Active | 4-(p-Hydroxyphenyl)-2 butanone acetate Cuelure |
| Product Designation | Pheromone containing active chemical and antioxidant |
| Dispenser | Cellulose acetate plug coated in special waxes (1g or 2g) |
| Active Life | 2–3 months (temperature dependent) |
| Packaging | Individually Sachet Packed |
| Sachet Material | Foil Lined Laminate |
| Shelf Life | Up to 2 years when stored in cool, dry conditions |
| Recommended Trap | McPhail Trap |
