Semiochemical-Based Trapping Method for Weevil Pests on Guam

Semiochemical-based trapping methods were developed for the control of the banana weevil (Cosmopolites sordidus), the New Guinea sugarcane weevil (Rhabdoscelus obscurus) and the sweetpotato weevil (Cylas formicarius) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). Photos of trapping systems, as well as trapping dates, were collected and developed into an instruction manual along with the developed methods. General trapping methods on Guam were subjected to various semiochemical-based lures, which characterizes local production. The semiochemical-based trapping method were photographed and lures were evaluated for use. A survey of 10 farms was conducted to evaluate current growers’ knowledge and farm practices. Crops were evaluated for the nature of pest damage and symptoms based on the semiochemical-based trapping method. A follow-up survey was conducted on these same farms at the end of the project to evaluate the impact of the capacity building on agriculture professionals and the impact a field day had on their knowledge and practices. The guide covers the relationship between semiochemicals and overall crop production/health on Guam for four different methods.

Want more information? See the related SARE grant(s) EW09-012, Increasing ecological insect pest management on Guam through building agriculture professionals’ understanding of semiochemicals .