Cotton: Tweaks Under way in Pink Bollworm Eradication: Changes Due to Suspect Moths in Traps

摘要

Continued efforts to rid cotton fields in the west and southwest (USA) of the pesky pink bollworm (PBW) insect, Pectinophora gossypiella, are moving the industry closer to eradication, but an issue with 'suspect moths' has industry leaders tweaking the process. The PBW is the most damaging, profit-stealing pest in cotton. Female PBW moths lay eggs on bolls. The emerging larvae damage the boll by feeding on the seed; damaging the lint in the process. The damaged boll creates a potential pathway for other insects and fungi to enter.