Olive oil growers in Jaén have been advised to carefully examine the presence of the olive moth (Prays oleae) in their groves. Experts from the farmers association COAG have found evidence of a massive spreading that could be the most severe to date.
See Also:Olive Oil Production NewsCOAG Jaén asked its associates to seek the intervention of advisors in their groves. Such a considerable presence of the moth represents a major risk for the next harvest season’s olive yield.
Experts at COAG noted that traditional measures against the spreading of the moth have been hindered this year by the weather in many areas. Heavy rainfall hit the region when flowering was underway.
Damage by larva Prays oleae Bernard (Lepidoptera: Yponomeutidae) on olive leaf
In the areas where no moth containment measures have been taken, the damage could spread to as much as 50 percent of the groves, COAG warned, while lesser damage of up to 20 or 30 percent could be expected in treated areas.
The group also noted that while temperatures have risen recently, the heat is not expected to reach 35°C (95°F) or higher that might kill off the eggs of the moth.
Quick action is imperative, the experts said, faced with what they say are unprecedented numbers of adult moths seen on the fields. They warn that without an aggressive response, many growers risk a large fruit drop come September.
Related Articles
Oct. 13, 2024
Low-Cost Olive Pest Control Solution in Development
Researchers in Spain are developing an artificial intelligence tool to help farmers sustainably and affordably monitor for pests and take action against infestations.
Jul. 29, 2024
Olive Trees on Corfu Face Threat from Wood-Eating Insects, Experts Rule Out Xylella
A lab in Athens ruled out Xylella fastidiosa as the cause of the dieback in central and northern Corfu groves.
Oct. 31, 2024
Study Suggests Stink Bug Caused Mysterious Fruit Drop in Italy
The brown marmorated stink bug has been identified in Italian and Greek olive groves. Increasing evidence now links its presence to an early fruit drop in northern Italy.
May. 23, 2024
Olives with Higher Phenol Content More Resistant to Anthracnose
Researchers found that olive varieties that maintained high concentrations of certain phenolic compounds during ripening were less likely to develop anthracnose.
Jan. 18, 2024
Controlling Black Scale in California Groves
While the invasive insect does not impact oil quality, heavy infestations can reduce olive yields. The pest is expected to spread as California’s winters become milder.
Dec. 4, 2023
How the Iberian Ant Can Help Control Pests in Olive Groves
Researchers found that Iberian ants naturally prey on olive moth larvae in olive groves without disrupting the rest of the ecosystem.
Jul. 15, 2024
Xylella Fastidiosa Identified in Extremadura
Extremadura joins the Balearic Islands and the Community of Valencia as the Spanish regions with active Xylella infestations.
Nov. 12, 2024
Olive Leaf Moth Threatens Brazilian Crops: Researchers Seek Solutions
Brazilian researchers have discovered a dual solution to combat the olive leaf moth: a new eco-friendly insecticide and the strategic use of local wasp species as natural predators.