The Tomato Fruit Borer (Neoleucinodes elegantalis) is an important pest on tomatoes in some areas. Overwintered Tomato Fruit Borer larvae typically emerge in spring and the first adults may be seen soon after. There can be up to 8 generations in a year. The Tomato Fruit Borer Growing Degree Day Model, developed by researchers, and available on the Pest Prophet app, is a tool growers can use to predict the onset and peak of adult trap catches using field-specific temperature data.

Initiating the Biofix

To properly use the model, the biofix must first be set. This is the date that will serve as the starting point for growing degree day accumulation. For this model, January 1st is the standard biofix to start accumulation (for the Northern Hemisphere). This can be used to predict when adults will emerge and pheromone traps can be used.

After adults are observed and confirmed, the biofix can be adjusted in order to improve accuracy of the model for predicting later life stages.

Growing Degree Day Accumulation and Treatment

After the biofix is set, growing degree day accumulation can begin, using a lower threshold of 48F and an upper threshold of 90F. This can be done using daily high and low temperatures, or using hourly temperature data using the Pest Prophet app. Adults typically emerge at 100 GDD (F) after the Jan. 1st biofix, with the next generation occuring at 1140 GDD(F). These adults can be targeted for traps. The model can then be used to predict subsequent generations.

Source:

Moraes, C.. and L.A. Foerster. 2015. Thermal Requirements, fertility, and number of generations of Neoleucinodes elegantalis (Guenee)(Lepidoptera: Crambidae) Neotrop. Entomol 44:338-344.