Moth trapping of males using Diatraea spp. (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) pupae in sugarcane plantations

Objective: To standardize the moth trapping method through the use of Delta traps with Diatraea pupae to lure males. Design/Methodology/Approach: The following lure types were placed inside Delta traps: two female pupae (T1), three female pupae (T2), and two female pupae with one adult female (T3). The response variable was the number of male moths captured per trap. An analysis of variance and Tukey’s test (p≤0.05) were performed. Results: Statistical differences (p≤0.05) were observed between T3 and T1/T2: T3 trapped the lowest number of specimens (0.94 adults/trap) from May to July 2022. Likewise, June recorded the highest abundance of Diatraea moths (3.05 adults/trap). Nevertheless, T1 captured the highest number of specimens (4.16). Study Limitations/Implications: The use of commercial pheromones has been established as a useful moth trapping method in the case of stem borers. In recent years, no favorable results have been observed with the use of pheromones of the D. saccharalis, D. grandiosella, and D. considerata species in Delta traps. These findings could be indicative of the presence of another Diatraea species. Findings/Conclusions: The use of two Diatraea pupae per trap attracts male moths. This method would help to detect and regulate moths, with the aim of interrupting their life cycle