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ARS Home » Pacific West Area » Wapato, Washington » Temperate Tree Fruit and Vegetable Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #197653

Title: MASS REARING CODLING MOTHS: IMPROVEMENTS AND MODIFICATIONS

Author
item Hansen, James D
item Anderson, Pauline

Submitted to: Journal of British Columbia Entomological Society
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 10/25/2006
Publication Date: 12/1/2006
Citation: Hansen, J.D., Anderson, P.A. 2006. Mass rearing codling moths: improvements and modifications. Journal of British Columbia Entomological Society 103:33-36.

Interpretive Summary: A laboratory rearing colony provides insects necessary for various studies, yet requires continual improvements to maintain production and quality. Researchers at the Yakima Agricultural Research Laboratory in Wapato, Washington, examined preexistent procedures to refine the rearing of codling moth, a severe pest of temperate tree fruits. Advancements were made in increased production, improved quality, and improved disease control. Healthy insects of all life stages are now economically available year round for research activities.

Technical Abstract: Modifications of the diet, oviposition cages, rearing containers, diapause induction and adult handling are described for a rearing colony of codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), maintained at the USDA-ARS facility in Wapato, Washington (USA), for over 40 years for use in field, laboratory, and postharvest research. During this time, major changes have been made to the diet, oviposition cages, rearing containers, diapause induction, and adult handling. Disease threats to the colony have changed from fungi to microsporidia and granulovirus, which have required changes in rearing procedures. Based on previous studies, moth production of the rearing colony approaches the maximum efficiency at a density of one larva per 4.8 ml of diet.