Monitoring and mass-trapping methodologies using pheromones: the lesser date moth Batrachedra amydraula.

The lesser date moth (LDM) Batrachedra amydraula is a significant pest of date palm fruits. Previously, detection and monitoring of the pest was inaccurate due to high costs of sampling with lifting machines. We report a practical system for detection and monitoring of LDM based on pheromone traps and relevant models.

Circadian release of male-specific components of the greater date moth, Aphomia (Arenipses) sabella, using sequential SPME/GC/MS analysis.

The greater date moth (GDM), Aphomia sabella Hampson (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae: Galleriinae), is a serious pest of date palms, Phoenix dactylifera. The release of volatiles from both males and females was investigated using sequential SPME/GC/MS analysis. Males release a complex mixture of compounds in a circadian rhythm during the night between 03:00 and 05:00 hr.