A Field Trial of Mating Disruption for Helicoverpa spp. in Cotton

Abstract

Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) and Helicoverpa punctigera (Wallengren) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) are widespread throughout Australia, and are pests of field and horticultural crops. Their importance has grown, especially with the advent of resistance in H. armigera to synthetic pyrethroids (Gunning & Balfe,1990). This resistance problem, and the increasing public concern about over-use of pesticides and consequent detrimental effects on the environment, mean that alternative control methods are needed. One of the alternatives is mating disruption. This is achieved by releasing pheromone into the atmosphere in a concentration sufficient to disrupt communication between the sexes, thus preventing mating and subsequent larval infestations.