The potential of two electrostatic powders as the basis for an autodissemination control method of Plodia interpunctella (Hu¨bner)

Abstract

A comparison of the retention, horizontal transmission and effect on mating of two electrostatic powders (Entomag™ and Entostat™) was made to evaluate their potential as a component of an autodissemination method for the control of Plodia interpunctella. Both powders were shown to have some effects on mating behaviour and the ability of treated males to locate a pheromone source when applied in high doses. However, no effects were observed at rates consistent with the amount of powder that was actually taken up when the moths visited a prototype autodissemination device. Male and females lost 69.9% and 64.3% by weight, respectively, of Entomag by 48 h after exposure but lost more Entostat, 89.8% and 75.9%, over the same period. Critical to the efficacy of autodissemination is the transfer of powder from males to females and on average a 49% greater weight of Entostat was transferred than Entomag. Due to the different densities of the powders, it was calculated that a 49% increase in transfer of powder equated to over three times more Entostat than Entomag particles being passed from male to female. It was concluded that Entostat would appear to be the carrier of choice for a prototype P. interpunctella autodissemination system.

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