Development and reproduction of the oriental fruit moth in apple and peaches

Abstract

The objective of this work was to evaluate the immature stages development and the reproductive parameters of Grapholita molesta adults reared on shoots and fruit of 'Vanguarda' peach, on fruit of 'Gala' and 'Fuji' apples, and on a diet formulated with corn meal. The experimental design was completely randomized. Each insect was considered one replicate; and for the biological parameters of adults study, each couple was considered a replicate. The fertility life table was calculated. The time for larvae development was shorter in peach shoots and fruits, in comparison with apple fruit and corn meal diets. There were no differences for larvae survival, in the comparison between diets. Based on fertility life table, 'Fuji' apple fruit are more appropriated to the G. molesta development than Gala ones. Peach shoots were more suited for insect development than fruit. The corn meal-based diet is suitable to rear G. molesta in laboratory. The evaluated diets affect survival rate, development and growth potential of G. molesta population.