Effect of anti-hail nets on <i>Cydia pomonella</i> behavior in apple orchards

Abstract:
Over the last 10 years, the use of nets to protect pome fruit from hailstorms has increased. In this study, we investigated the effect of these nets on the behavior of the codling moth, Cydia pomonella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae), a major pest of apple, Malus domestica Borkh. (Rosaceae). Experiments were carried out in net-covered and uncovered apple orchards treated with conventional insecticides. The number of codling moth males caught in pheromone- and virgin female-baited traps was significantly reduced in net-covered compared to uncovered plots. In addition, inhibition of mating by the net was demonstrated by significant reductions in mating of tethered virgin females. Fruit injury was consistently lower in net-covered plots vs. uncovered plots. Because of the reductions in male trap catch, the reduced female mating frequency, and the lower level of damage, we conclude that flat anti-hail nets have a disruptive effect on the reproductive behavior of the codling moth.