Co-Authors:
Kehat, M.
Blumberg, D.
Greenberg, S., Div. of Entomology, ARO, The Volcani Center, Bet Dagan, Israel
Abstract:
The extent of fruit drop and damage inflicted to date fruit by Coccotrypes and nitidulids was estimated and control measures were investigated. Fruit drop, which occurred mainly in July and resulted in a 30-40% yield loss, was due mainly to Coccotrypes, which attacked unripe fruit. Fruit which dropped and started to rot was infested by nitidulid beetles throughout the summer. Green fruit was not damaged by nitidulids while on the bunches, but only as ripening progressed. Protecting the bunches with dense netting coverings prevented penetration of both pests and greatly reduced fruit drop and infestation. Although the organophosphorus insecticides pirimiphos-methyl and azinphos-methyl were efficient in controlling nitidulids, the mechanical control method was preferable. © 1976 Springer Science + Business Media B.V.