Damage assessment of the leopard moth, Zeuzera pyrina (Lep.: Cossidae) in orchards of Urmia region and investigation on some of its control methods in walnut trees

Leopard moth, Zeuzera pyrina L. is an important woodborer in orchards especially on walnut trees. Its damage has been remarkably increased in Urmia region in recent years. In this research, the amount of pest damage was compared on different orchards such as apple, walnut and peach. The best control method of pest was investigated by using of two insecticides, pheromone and light traps in field conditions. The highest pest damage was observed on walnut trees in Balo village and the least damage was recorded in Gajin and Haji-Abad villages. Old walnut trees (25-30 years old) suffered more damages than younger trees. In 2020, peak of adult leopard moth emergence was recorded in May 29 by using pheromone trap via mass trapping. Two weeks after flight peak, control methods including the use of Hexaflumuron and Imidacloprid insecticides along with pheromone and light traps were assessed. Based on the obtained results, Hexaflumuron along with the pheromone trap exhibited the best efficacy considering the reduced pest damage in 2021. Thus, this method can be used effectively in integrated management program of leopard moth.