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Title: EFFECTS OF AGING AND DILUTION ON ATTRACTION AND TOXICITY OF GF-120 FRUIT FLY BAIT SPRAY FOR MELON FLY CONTROL IN HAWAII.

Author
item Revis, Hannah
item Miller, Neil
item Vargas, Roger

Submitted to: Journal of Economic Entomology
Publication Type: Peer Reviewed Journal
Publication Acceptance Date: 4/20/2004
Publication Date: 10/20/2004
Citation: Revis, H.C., Miller, N.W., Vargas, R.I. 2004. Effects of aging and dilution on attraction and toxicity of gf-120 fruit fly bait spray for melon fly control in Hawaii. Journal of Economic Entomology. 97(5):P1659-1665.

Interpretive Summary: Attractiveness and toxicity of Gf-120 to melon flies, Bactrocera cucurbitae Coquillett, were examined to assess the effects of dilution and aging under Hawaiian weather conditions in 2002. Test of GF-120 fruit fly bait (Dow AgroScience) were conducted at the University of Hawaii Agricultural Research Stations in Kainaliu and Kapaa, and at Nonaka Farms, Hanapepe Valley, HI. We tested dilutions of 20, 40, and 80 ppm active ingredient (Spinosad) against water controls. Similar rates of attractiveness and toxicity were identified for the recommended dilution of 80 and 40 ppm dilutions; however, there was no difference between attraction to a 20 ppm dilution and water. We tested aged bait exposed to one of three different aging conditions for 2 h and 24 h versus fresh bait and water controls. The age and exposure to weathering processes affected the attractiveness and toxicity of GF-120. Baits aged for as little as 2 h were 11 times less attractive to female melon flies than fresh bait. Mortality rates were reduced by 50% when GF-120 was subjected to rain. GF-120 was most effective under humid conditions, immediately after application.

Technical Abstract: Attractiveness and toxicity of GF-120 fruit fly bait (Dow AgroScience) to melon flies, Bactrocera cucurbitae Coquillett, were examined to assess the effects of concentration and aging. We tested dilutions of 20, 40, and 80 ppm active ingredient (spinosad) against water controls. The 80 and 40 ppm treatments were significantly more attractive than the 20 ppm and control treatments. Baits were aged for 2 h and 24 h and compared to fresh bait and water controls. Age had a significant effect upon the attractiveness and toxicity of GF-120. Baits aged for 2 h were 11 times less attractive to female melon flies than fresh bait. Mortality rates were reduced by 50% when GF-120 was subjected to rain.