Gypsy Moth Pheromome Dispenser

ARS researchers have developed a gypsy moth sex attractant pheromone dispenser. Gypsy moths are major defoliators of forest and shade trees, such as oak and poplar. A synthetic female gypsy moth pheromone, which attracts male moths, is placed in the dispenser to draw male moths into the trap, which also contains a moth-killing insecticide. The number of moths captured in the traps reveals gypsy moths presence in the area, and helps technicians define what measures are needed to control this insect. ARS’s pheromone dispenser is made of twine coated with a mixture of polyvinylchloride (PVC) and the insect attractant. The dispenser can release the attractant at an effectively high rate, while at the same time prolonging its release over the entire mating season. This invention gives agencies, such as USDA’s Forest Service, an additional tool for use in their program to stop the moths’ assault on national forests, as well as on woodlands in residential areas. Gypsy moths are a major forest pest in the northeastern United States.

Insect biological control companies that manufacture dispensers for use in insect pest management programs could use this invention.

Please refer to Patent Number 6,372,241 (Docket #0085.94), "PVC/Twine Dispenser for (+)- Pheromones," which issued on April 16, 2002.

Inventors:

David E. DeVilbiss Chemicals Affecting Insect    Behavior Laboratory USDA, ARS, Henry A. Wallace    Beltsville Agricultural Research Center Building 007, Room 321, BARC-West Beltsville, MD 20705-2350 (301) 504-6395 / Fax: (301) 6580 devilbid@ba.ars.usda.gov	Barbara A. Leonhardt (retired)
Victor C. Mastro USDA, APHIS Otis, ANGB, Massachusetts (508) 563-9303 vic.mastro@aphis.usda.gov