The Population Fluctuation of Prays oleae Bern (Lepidoptera: Praydidae, Yponomeutidae) in Three Different Olive Orchards

The olive moth, Prays oleae Bern (Lepidoptera: Praydidae, Yponomeutidae) is a significant pest of olive (Olea europaea L.) trees in Turkey. This study aimed to investigate the monitoring of the population fluctuation of P. oleae at different time intervals. The study was conducted in 3 different olive orchards located in the Mersin Province between 2020 and 2022. Traps were inspected weekly, and the numbers of captured P. oleae individuals were recorded separately. The results of the study revealed that the first adults of P. oleae in 2022 were caught in the first week of April. In the second year of the study, in all three orchards, the population was lower due to the effects of insecticide applications and increased precipitation compared to other years. Generally, in the study observed the highest population peak during the third week of September. Recording the population peaks and understanding the timing of P. oleae population fluctuations can provide valuable information for implementing Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategies in olive orchards. By considering these population dynamics, informed decisions can be made to effectively manage and control P. oleae populations, ultimately aiding in the protection of olive crops.