How do I use a pheromone trap?

Learning Objective:

Participants should understand how a pheromone trap works and how to use it.

A pheromone trap for FAW (Fall Armyworm) is a type of insect trap that uses a synthetic pheromone to attract male Fall Armyworm moths. The pheromone is a chemical that the female moths produce to attract the males for mating. The synthetic version used in the trap mimics this natural pheromone, which attracts male moths and lures them into the trap.

The pheromone trap consists of a container filled with a sticky substance that traps the moths once they enter the trap. The trap is placed in the field or near the crops being monitored. When the moths are trapped in the container, the number of moths caught can be used to estimate the size of the Fall Armyworm population in the area. 

The pheromone trap is a valuable tool for monitoring Fall Armyworm populations and assessing the need for control measures. By identifying the presence and severity of the infestation, farmers can take timely action to minimize the damage caused by the pest. 

Read

Read this FAO Guidance Note to find out best practice information on monitoring using pheromone traps.

Watch

Watch this video for a masterclass from Dr Rob Meagher on the Trapping FAW: The Use of Pheromones, Trap Design and Lures for FAW Control.

Search

Interested in understanding how a Trap might be used to collect FAW and then how FAW can be identified – watch this video