Pheromone Monitoring Lure for Ostrinia nubilalis, European Corn Borer

Pheromone specificity

There are three primary known strains of this pest each responding to a specific pheromone blend. To accurately monitor this pest it is vital that the correct blend be used for monitoring. One strain produces a 97:3 ratio blend of Z‐11 and E‐11‐tetradecenyl acetate where the Z or cis isomer is the major component while a second strain of females produce an opposite 1:99 ratio of the Z and E isomers, where the E or trans isomer is the major component. A third strain responds best to a 1:1 ratio blend. Males of each race respond specifically to their conspecific female’s blend. To avoid affecting the efficiency of the trapping system it is strongly recommended that traps be used for only the one species. Never use the lures for other species in this trap.

Directions for Use

Funnel Traps or Delta Traps are recommended. Place traps in field by early June in Mediterranean latitudes and in mid June in northern regions and continue until mid to late September. Traps should be attached to stakes at 1m height and placed within the crop with at least 50m between each trap. As the maize grows keep the trap at the height of the crop. One trap should be sufficient to monitor up to 3 hectares of a uniform field. In the case of small or non uniform plots, use 1 trap per hectare. Lures should be changed every 4-6 weeks. The Funnel Traps should be emptied weekly to avoid the trap filling and repelling flying insects from putrefaction of the insects caught. Catches should be recorded every 3‐4 days in low populations but more frequently in fields with high populations.

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 should be kept under good storage conditions at below 15°C when the dispensers will retain their activity and attraction for a minimum of 12 months. Bulk storage of dispensers for periods of up to 18 months is possible by refrigeration at temperatures of 4°C or below. Keep dispensers inside their sealed packaging until use. When replaced, the old dispenser should be completely removed from the area of use and destroyed to prevent interference with the fresh replacement/ recharge dispenser.