Flushing Technique and Sequential-Count Plan for Green Cloverworm (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) Moths in Soybean 1

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Abstract
A moth flushing technique was devised to sample green c1overworm adults in soybean. The technique requires a surveyor and a recorder-observer who flush moths with two aluminum rods and record data, respectively. A fixed-count sampling plan using the technique was conducted throughout the growing seasons of 1977 to 1980 near Ames, Iowa. The sampling plan was found useful for making moth estimates and was moderately precise for population studies. Estimates from the flushing program were authenticated by: (1) confirming moth identifications, (2) searching alternate habitats, (3) reflushing areas previously sampled, and (4) comparing with emergence-trap and blacklight-trap estimates. Analysis of moth dispersion showed slight but significant aggregation, with the individual being the basic unit of aggregation. A sequential-count plan was developed for 10, 15, 20, and 25% precision levels. The utility of the sequential-count plan was evaluated during 1981.