No hocus-pocus this anti-Matsucoccus PHOCUS
Dealing with the blight of insects that affect pine and citrus trees across the Mediterranean region has been a consistent problem with no viable solution. Various pesticide campaigns have proven ineffective causing scientists to search for a better solution. As in so many other instances, they found potential answers in the way nature does things. In this case, using natural sexual attraction. Under the PHOCUS project several EU countries undertook studies into natural means to curtail pine infestations. Using kairomones, pheromones and natural enemies, these studies attempted to identify the most beneficial manner in which pest control could be conducted. In some studies the use of pheromone traps to lure male insects was proven insufficient in curtailing high-density larvae outbreaks. Studies conducted in citrus fruit production revealed that pheromone based massed trapping actually spawned more infestations, as un-trapped male mealybugs seemed to respond to the deficit in male populations. Other studies revealed that pheromone trapping alone had no real benefits. Further investigations into kairomone usage had better success. Kairomones traps are used in order to attract natural predators. In experiments conducted in Corsica and Portugal using kairomone traps it was found this method enhanced biological control of invasive pests. One advantage of kairomone was the long duration of its effects, as natural predators tended to inhabit a region long after the traps had been removed. A valid conclusion remains that a carefully balanced combination of kairomones, pheromones and chemical treatments will probably yield the best results. While the aims of the PHOCUS project intended to incorporate environmentally safe methods to contain infestation, all in all however, longer-term studies are required to assess its full potential and to gain a more accurate picture of natural chemical usage.
