Recapture of Sugarcane Borer (Diatraea saccharalis (F)) Males Released at Different Distances from Pheromone-Baited Traps

Abstract

Stikem-coated traps constructed from 5-gallon plastic cans and baited with virgin females of Diatraea saccharalis (F.) were more effective in recapture of males than comparable wire traps. Percent recapture for males released at 120 feet, 180 feet, and 220 feet from traps baited with virgin females were 18.6, 23.0 and 24.3 percent, respectively. Higher numbers were recaptured when males were released upwind from pheromone traps than when releases were made downwind, thus indicating that the male response to the pheromone may be through chemical olfactory receptors. Cool temperatures, arthropod predation and poor trap design can be responsible factors for inefficient recapture of released males.