Trapping system
The Yellow Delta Trap® and a Yellow Delta Trap® Sticky Liner are used in the capturing of the False codling moth (Thaumatotibia leucotreta). The Yellow Delta Trap® consists of a yellow coryx (plastic 3 mm) trap, wire and white plastic lure cage. The wire is used to attach the trap to the top 1/3 of the tree. The sticky liner is placed inside the trap and the semiochemical lure inside the white plastic lure cage. After the sides have been closed, the trap is ready for placement. A datasheet is printed on the bottom of the trap to record moth counts during weekly inspections.
F.C.M. PheroLure®
The semiochemical-filled polyethylene vial used to attract the False codling moth that goes into the trap is known as the F.C.M. PheroLure®. The F.C.M. PheroLure® needs to be replaced every 28 to 30 weeks. Any extra F.C.M. PheroLure® should be kept in their individual foil pouches in a fridge in order to prolong their shelf life.
How, where and when to hang traps
- How: Hang the trap in the top third of the tree. This will allow for maximum airflow, to distribute the semiochemical molecules (which are heavier than air) across the orchard. Hang the trap out of the way of farm implements & the direct reach of spray machines & irrigation systems as well as away from roads, as the dust will cover the sticky liner and dry out the glue. Secure the trap firmly to the pole/stand/tree so that it does not sway in the wind. Identify each trap by a trap/ block number for later reference.
- Where: A map or layout of the orchard will assist in the correct placing of traps in the field. In orchards with uniform topography, size & windbreaks, hang traps at a density of 1 trap per 5 – 10 Ha – this is the maximum area that can be monitored by a single trap. A higher trap density may be necessary in unevenly shaped orchards, orchards with an excessive slope, hollow or where the prevailing wind may otherwise adversely affect trap catches.
- When: Tree crops: Place traps in the orchard at the beginning of the production season.
Field Crops: One week after germination or transplant date.
Inspection and maintenance of traps
- Inspection: The traps should be inspected weekly on the same day of each week (7-day intervals). The number of False codling moths caught in the trap, together with the trap number & date needs to be recorded.
- Maintenance: Replace sticky liner if necessary. Unless the sticky liners are in a very good condition, it is recommended that it be replaced at least every six to eight (6 – 8) weeks.
Disposal of lures
F.C.M. PheroLure® needs to be replaced every 28 – 30 weeks and used F.C.M. PheroLures® can be disposed of in the garbage. No special precautions are required as F.C.M. PheroLure® is considered of no concern to human and environmental health.
Packaging
F.C.M.. PheroLure® is sold in individual foil pouches at 3 per pack or in bulk at 100 per pack in a big foil pouch.
