The seasonal abundance and control of light brown apple moth, Epiphyas postvittana (Walker) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), on grapevines in Victoria

Abstract

This paper describes studies relating to control of Epiphyas postvittana (Walker), the major insect pest of grapevines in north-west Victoria. From 1970 to 1973, observations were made of the seasonal abundance and damage by E. postvittana in the absence of control measures. Larval populations were highest during spring, and declined to low levels during summer. Parasites caused c. 30% larval mortality, but did not prevent larvae damaging up to 19% of grape bunches at harvest. In drying varieties the actual loss was only about 1% by weight. Damaged grapes were liable to fungal infection during January and February, which resulted in further loss. During 1973–74 some commercially available selective insecticides were compared with standard recommendations for control of E. postvittana. The most effective treatment was lead arsenate or lead arsenate–TDE but the use of Bacillus thuringiensis or aminocarb could be justified if control of other vine pests is taken into consideration.