Exploring sterile insect technique for management of codling moth in Michigan / Megan Abigail Andrews.

The use of sterile insect technique (SIT) for codling moth (Cydia pomonella L.) management has been proven successful at suppressing wild populations, allowing for the reduction of insecticide applications. Most of this research has occurred in British Columbia, Canada and Washington, United States. In this thesis, I demonstrate how this tool might be utilized in Michigan apple orchards. I first looked at how male and female C. pomonella respond to traps baited with different chemical cues in Michigan compared to Washington in a 2-year study. I found a difference in the sex ratios of recaptured codling moths between the two states, demonstrating that lure performance is different based upon regional differences. In addition to monitoring traps, I investigated how to apply sterile insect technique in Michigan where a farm-scale approach is necessary due to the relatively small size of orchards in this region. I compared the timing of releases during the season (1st generation, 2nd generation, or season long) in addition to the rate of moths released (half or full rate). The full rate released for first generation or season long had consistently low wild male moth captures throughout the season. Finally, we tested the method of the release (self-released, released in the canopy, or released on the ground) and found that there was no significant difference between the release methods tested. These results can inform future development of codling moth management programs for Michigan apple orchards that include the sterile insect release.

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