Peach extrafloral nectar impacts life span and reproduction of adult Grapholita molesta (Busck) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)

This study evaluated the longevity and fecundity of a laboratory strain of Grapholita molesta (Busck) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) when provided peach, Prunus persica L., extrafloral nectar for nourishment. Moths lived longer and females had a greater reproductive output when presented with extrafloral nectar and a source of water compared with moths provisioned only with water. Adult male G. molesta presented with nectar and water lived an average of 28.7 days, whereas, males provided only water lived about 17.8 days. Adult female G. molesta provided nectar and water lived 33.7 days and produced an average 255.9 fertile and 10.9 infertile eggs, whereas, females provided only water lived 14.4 days and produced an average 117.2 fertile and 2.1 infertile eggs. The higher number of infertile eggs laid by nectar fed females is attributed to an extended oviposition period of 29.4 days compared with 10.0 days for females provided only water. Peach extrafloral nectar did not affect the duration of preoviposition and postoviposition periods. It is quite possible that orchards planted with extrafloral nectar bearing varieties of peaches and nectarines may contribute to the longevity and reproductive potential of G. molesta in the field.