SEASONAL DYNAMICS OF THE CODLING MOTH(CYDIA POMONELLA) FLIGHT AT THE ŠTITAR (SERBIA) LOCATION DURING 2024

Cydia pomonella is a pest from the Tortricidae family (Lepidoptera). The apple codling moth is originally from the Mediterranean, from where it has spread not only throughout Europe but also to America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. In Europe, it was found nearly at the northernmost point in Norway, as well as in Switzerland in the Alps at altitudes over 1000 meters. It appears in significant numbers in all our regions where apples are grown. The damage caused by this species is constant and often economically significant. It consists of the dropping of newly formed fruits as a result of the larvae attack from the first generation. The damage from the second and third generations is reflected in the unmarketability of ripe fruits that contain caterpillars and tunnels filled with excrement. In addition, even slightly attacked fruits are not suitable for storage because they quickly rot and spoil. A study was conducted to monitor the population of C. pomonella adults during the year 2024. The research was carried out in an apple orchard in Štitar. Three pheromone traps were set up, and the readings were taken daily. The first appearance of adults was recorded during the sixth pentad of April 2024. In the other months throughout the year, there were statistically significant differences in the number of adults due to varying weather conditions.