Field Evaluation of a Micropump-based Multicomponent Aggregation Pheromones Dispenser

Pheromones are an important part of insect management; they are ecologically more acceptable than insecticides. Insect management often requires the release of multiple aggregation pheromones (generally 2 or 3 different semiochemicals). Currently, multiple diffusion controlled bubble caps or vials are required; their questionable field performance as a result of lack of reliability and lack of control of the emission rates, is also compounded by the need for multiple devices. The proposed investigation is aimed at comparing the field performance of a novel micropump-based dispenser with that of conventional bubble caps and vials, in attracting bark beetles. Delivery accuracy and reliability of this novel dispenser have already been demonstrated, in 2001, in the laboratory and in the field, albeit only for the release of an aqueous solution of antiaggregation pheromone (MCH). The object of this test will be to assess the opportunity to extend the technology to aggregation pheromone blends, released from a single solution.