FEMALE GRAPE ROOT BORER (LEPIDOPTERA, SESIIDAE) MATING SUCCESS UNDER SYNTHETIC SESIID SEX-PHEROMONE TREATMENT

Field observations of virgin female grape root borers (Vitacea polisti formis Harris) were made throughout daylight periods under different p heromone treatments and doses. The pheromone compounds used were: the grape root borer pheromone, a 99:1 blend of E,Z-2,13-octadecadien-1-ol acetate (EZ) and Z,Z-3,13-octadecadien-1-ol acetate (ZZ); EZ alone; a nd ZZ alone. Two different pheromone dispensers were used - rubber sep ta and Shin-Etzu twist-tie ropes. Treatments with 99:1 EZ: ZZ and 100% ZZ significantly reduced the ability of females to attract a mate. Sh in-Etzu ropes were the most effective dispenser for prevention of mati ng.