Patent Number: 6019964
Docket Number: 17595
Serial Number: 9120521
Date Patented: 02/01/2000

Technology Description: The invention relates to synthetic insect attractants. Compositions and combinations of alpha-ionol and cade oil are effective attractants for the Malaysian fruit fly, Bactrocera latifrons. By attracting adult males to field traps or baits, attractants provide a means for detecting, surveying, monitoring, and controlling this agricultural pest, which lays its eggs in peppers, tomatoes, eggplants, and cucurbits. The invention is directed to lures wherein a mixture or combination of alpha-ionol and cade oil is held in a dispenser which releases the mixture or combination to form the attractant vapor blend. An important feature is that the invention improves the effectiveness of alpha-ionol alone for use to detect and monitor Bactrocera latifrons population levels to determine whether control measures are needed. Thus, the composition offers an important tool in an integrated pest management program for control of this pest. The novel attractant of the invention provides a more effective tool for detecting Bactrocera latifrons, and provides a means for estimating and/or controlling pest populations. Companies developing insect detection and monitoring traps could use this technology, as well as pesticide companies. Commercialization of this technology will benefit growers with Malay fruit fly problems. Reference: Please refer to Patent Number 6,019,964, "Attractants for Bactrocera Latrifrons (Hendel)," which issued February 1, 2000. Inventors: Grant McQuate U.S. Pacific Basin Agricultural Research Center Hilo, Hawaii 96720 (808) 959-4339 / Fax: (808) 959-5470 Nicanor J. Liquido (retired) Roy T. Cunningham (retired) Robert A. Flath (retired)