EFFICACY OF DIFLUBENZURON AGAINST THE CODLING MOTH, LASPEYRESIA POMONELLA (LEPIDOPTERA: OLETHREUTIDAE), AND IMPACT ON ORCHARD MITES

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Abstract
The efficacy of diflubenzuron against the codling moth, Laspeyresia pomonella L., was compared with that of azinphos-methyl in two orchards. Two cover sprays were applied to coincide with peak codling moth activity which was monitored daily with pheromone-baited traps. In the Golden Delicious and mixed cultivar orchards, 187 ppm (mg active ingredient/1.) diflubenzuron provided control comparable to that of 187 ppm azinphos-methyl. In the 47 ppm diflubenzuron treatment, more fruit damage occurred particularly in the mixed cultivar orchard. In this orchard, the addition of Tween 20 to the spray mixture reduced fruit damage markedly.Diflubenzuron appeared non-toxic to the phytoseiid Typhlodromus occidentalis Nesbitt and stigmaeid Zetzellia mali Ewing. In addition, cover sprays did not increase populations of European red mite, Panonychus ulmi (Koch) or rust mites, Aculus spp.The efficacy of diflubenzuron against the codling moth and its compatability with integrated mite control suggest that the compound is a promising agent for pest management programs in apple orchards.