Influence of Environmental-Conditions on Flight Duration of Epiphyas-Postvittana (Walker) (Lepidoptera, Tortricidae)

Abstract

Flight responses of the light brown apple moth, Epiphyas postvittana (Walker), to changes in air temperature, atmospheric humidity, feeding and mating activities were studied under controlled conditions. Flights occurred within the air temperature range from 10 to 30-degrees-C, with the longest flight duration at 20-degrees-C for both sexes. A change of atmospheric humidity significantly influenced flight duration of females, but not of males, at 20-degrees-C. The longest flight duration of the female moths occurred at a relative humidity of 60%. Provision of honey solution or water improved flight duration of the moths aged three days or older. Mating increased flight duration of females from the age of three days onwards, presumably as a result of reduced body weight associated with oviposition.