Project Number: 6602-22000-035-01
Project Type: Reimbursable

Start Date: Jul 01, 2004
End Date: Jun 30, 2009

Objective:
Cactoblastis cactorum (Lepidoptera: Pyraliade) is an invasive cactus-feeding moth that is rapidly expanding its geographical range along both the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coasts, and threatening the Opuntia-based agriculture and ecosystems in the southwestern USA and Mexico. The Sterile Insect Technique (SIT) is the only tactic that appears capable of stopping the westward spread of this moth. The objective of this project is to develop and test SIT as a tactic for the containment of this pest at the leading edge of its geographical range, and as a tactic to eradicate point infestations that may occur beyond the leading edge.

Approach:
This study proposes to release sterile insects over three generations of adult flight that occur for Cactoblastis each year (April-May; July-August; mid-September to mid-November) in Florida, as well as to conduct follow-up monitoring/assessment in the subsequent fourth generation. Research and development activities to prepare for and implement this study will include: (1) development of survey and trapping techniques, (2) evaluation of synthetic lures for traps, (3) mark-release-recapture tests to determine moth competitiveness, storage and transportation protocols, release methodology, release frequency and dispersal ability, (4) refinement of rearing methodologies and expansion of rearing capabilities, (5) mapping of host plants in SIT validation areas, and (6) development of protocols for area sanitation through the removal of infested plants.