Antiaggregative Effect of Verbenone on Response of the Mountain Pine Beetle to Baited Traps

摘要

Response of the mountain pine beetle (MPB) (Dendroctonus ponderosae Hopkins) to Lindgren funnel traps baited with a commercial lure, alone and in combination with verbenone, an aggregation-inhibiting pheromone, was measured in a lodgepole pine (Pinus contorta var. latifolia Engelm.) stand in Utah. The purpose of the test reported here was to assess the antiaggregative effect of the (-)-enantiomer of verbenone when added to the standard commercial MPB lure, consisting of exo-brevicomin, trans-verbenol, and myrcene, on response of MPB populations. More specifically, the test sought to determine if the anticipated reduction in MPB trapped would warrant further testing of verbenone for use in preventing MPB infestations in high-value stands, such as those in riparian zones, campgrounds, and critical big game habitat. Results from the test suggest that verbenone, when deployed prior to beetle flight, offers considerable promise for interfering with the aggregation behavior of MPB populations and preventing them from reaching unacceptable levels, especially in high-value stands.