Integrated management of tomato fruit borer (Neoleucinodes elegantalis)

The management of Neoleucinodes elegantalis (Guenee) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) with neem-based and registered insecticides most applied on tomato crops in the Agreste region on N. elegantalis (eggs, pre-pupae and pupae) were evaluated in this study; methomyl, chlorpyrifos, lambda-cyhalothrin, beta-cypermethrin, deltamethrin, etofenprox, chlorantraniliprole and the neem-based insecticides (azadirachtin A/B and emulsifiable neem oil) were used for studying the repellent effect on oviposition. Lufenuron, deltamethrin and indoxacarb associated with 2.5% sucrose were used as toxic baits on tomato plants. Regarding the ovicidal effect, etofenprox and methomyl had the highest egg mortality, reducing larval survival and fruit damage. Etofenprox had the highest average mortality: 50% in pupae and 38% in pre-pupae. As for repellency, all insecticides tested reduced significantly the number of eggs when compared to the control, except for azadirachtin and chlorantraniliprole. Lufenuron and deltamethrin decreased the number of eggs, showing great potential for use in toxic baits, while indoxacarb stimulated oviposition, thus not being recommended for this purpose. The appropriate use of synthetic insecticides can maximize their potential of control, as long as their use is directed to the stage of the pest that causes higher damage to the crop, or exploring their potential as oviposition deterrent, as well as their use in toxic baits. Key words: Toxic bait, ovicidal effect, repellence, integrated management.