Project Number: 6602-22000-034-02
Project Type: Reimbursable

Start Date: Oct 01, 2002
End Date: Sep 30, 2005

Objective:
Develop a tactic to eradicate the false codling moth (FCM) should it become established in the U.S. By developing and optimizing the technologies and protocols for an inherited sterility program in South Africa, we will have technologies and resources available for use in the U.S. should they be necessary. We also will improve FCM control in South Africa by combining inherited sterility with augmentative biological control. This combined approach will also improve the cost efficiency of current insect rearing and reduce the risk of accidental introduction of this pest into the U.S.

Approach:
Radiation biology studies of FCM will be conducted to determine the minimum dose at which irradiated females are 100% sterile when mated to fertile males, and determine the minimum dose at which irradiated males produce 100% sterile offspring. The effects of radiation administred to 8- to 10-day-old pupae and adults will be investigated. Doses of radiation used in these studies will range from 0-350 Gy in 50 Gy increments. Data will be recorded for all life parameters including fecundity, fertility, and longevity of the irradiated insects, and survival, fecundity, and fertility of F1 progeny of irradiated parents. The combination of inherited sterility and parasitoids for control of FCM will be investigated. Field cage studies will be conducted to determine appropriate overflooding ratios for releases of treated moths and to evaluate the quality and competitiveness of treated moths. Orchard studies will evaluate the use of SIT alone or in combination with biological control.

Project Team

Carpenter, James - Jim

Project Annual Reports

FY 2003

Related National Programs

Crop Protection & Quarantine (304)