Evaluation of a novel host plant volatile-based attracticide for management of Colorado potato beetle, Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say)

Abstract LT 50 and LD 50 values were established for three novel attract-and-kill formulations that were directed against Leptinotarsa decemlineata (Say) in a field trial. The “attracticide” is comprised of a synthetic blend of three naturally occurring potato plant volatiles (( Z )-3-hexenyl acetate, (±)-linalool and methyl salicylate) and a pyrethroid insecticide. Graphical and quantitative LT 50 and LD 50 estimates for formulations carrying 0.6%, 2%, or 6% active ingredient permethrin were determined by adult insect exposure time (0, 1, 3, or 10 s) and percent active ingredient. Following exposure for 10 s, the 2% and 6% formulation LT 50 estimates were not significantly different despite the former representing a 66.7% reduction in active ingredient. However, only the 6% formulation produced ⩾50% mortality for exposure times below 10 s. Therefore, practical considerations suggest that this formulation would be the most appropriate for commercial use. In the field study, the attracticide proved effective only against small larvae (first and second instars). The 2% and 6% attracticide formulations deployed against small larvae provided control that was not significantly different from that of the commercial insecticide while using 92% less active ingredient.