Sexual biology and mating disruption of orange tortrix, Argyrotaenia citrana (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)

Studies were conducted to characterize the sexual biology of Argyrotaenia citrana (Fernald) and to evaluate the potential of sex pheromones to disrupt moth communication. Both males and females are sexually active during their first scotophase. Virgin females start calling 3 hrs into scotophase and continue until sunrise. Calling frequency by virgins is lower during the first than in subsequent nights. Females generally mate once during a scotophase. Calling is reduced after mating for one scotophase and then increases though mated females continue to call less frequently than virgins. Peak calling by mated females is delayed several hours compared with virgins. Females may remate after 1-3 days. Males can mate more than once per scotophase. Oviposition is concentrated during early scotophase. Females laid an average of five egg masses. Communication and mating disruption were evaluated in replicated 0.1 ha plots and 100 m2 field cages treated with field-aged polyethylene tube dispensers releasing 0.7-1.2 mg/d of either (Z)-11-tetradecenyl acetate alone or in a 15:1 blend with (Z)-11-tetradecenal. Mating of tethered females in field cages and catches of lure and female-baited traps in small field plots were nearly completely disrupted with the two component blend. Dispensers emitting only the acetate pheromone were less effective in disrupting moth communication in similar tests.Key words: Argyrotaenia citrana; orange tortrix; leafrollers; Rubus; mating disruption; sexual behavior