Abstract:
Guava moth was first observed in New Zealand in 1997. Little is known
of this species in its native Australia, where it is not considered a pest. In
New Zealand guava moths laid their eggs at the stem and style end and in
cracks and crevices on fruit, and the resulting larvae fed internally on
fruits. Pupation occurred in loose soil and debris in the orchard, and in
sawdust beneath fruits in the laboratory. In July 2003 guava moth
distribution, as determined by pheromone trap catches, was limited to
Northland, where adult males were found north of and including
Whangarei Heads. No moths were trapped in Auckland, Waikato or Bay
of Plenty. Larvae were collected from a range of introduced fruits in
Northland during all months of the year. However, no larvae were found
in samples of nearly ripe native berries. Control options for guava moth
are discussed.
