Factors influencing mating incidence and reproduction in codling moth Cydia pomonella L. (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)

Abstract

The codling moth Cydia pomonella L. is a primary pest of apple and various studies have been performed to assess the possibility of applying sterile insect technique as a control method against this pest. In support of this technique, the present work aims to examine the effects of adult age and weight on mating ability, number of matings, fecundity and fertility in C. pomonella. The relationship between number of matings, fecundity, and fertility of females was also studied. Female and male weights were found to have an effect on the number of times individuals mate, but male weight only influenced mating success. Unlike male weight, female weight affected fecundity and fertility.  Negative correlations were found between mating success, fecundity and fertility and adult age. Multiply-mated females and those which did not accept a second mating showed higher fecundity and fertility than their counterparts that were not given the opportunity to remate. Our results provide essential information necessary to increase the effectiveness of sterile insect technique as a control method against C. pomonella.