AN EFFECTIVE MASS TRAPPING METHOD FOR THE CONTROL OF DACUS-OLEAE (DITERA, TEPHRITIDAE)

Research efforts during the last decade have culminated in the development of an effective trapping method for the control of the olive fruit fly, Dacus oleae (Gmelin). The method combines a food attractant, a phagostimulant, a male sex pheromone, a female aggregation pheromone with additional arrestant and aphrodisiac properties, and a hygroscopic substance on an insecticide-treated wood board. Pilot studies conducted from 1984 to 1988 have shown the efficacy of the method, as well as its limitations. The method eliminated an average of four (three to five) insecticide sprays required per season for the control of this pest, reduced pesticide use by 99% per treatment, and is being introduced gradually by the Greek Ministry of Agriculture to replace the use of bait or cover sprays that have been used for decades.