Abstract

We determined in an earlier study that single Japanese beetle, Popillia japonica Newman, traps, used according to manufacturers’ specifications, were ineffective for reducing defoliation of potted grape, Vitis sp., plants in urban landscape. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that single trap placements might be more effective for protecting a relatively less attractive host species, and evaluated five multiple trap arrangements (2–7 traps) for effectiveness in reducing defoliation of grape. Single traps, positioned 3.1 m upwind or 9.3 m downwind of pin oak, Quercus palustris L., trees, resulted in significantly greater defoliation than on trees without traps. None of the multiple trap arrangements reduced defoliation, and four of the five placements resulted in significantly greater damage than without traps. Use of single Japanese beetle traps or small scale multiple trap arrangements will not prevent or reduce defoliation of nearby plantings and will probably increase the damage inflicted upon both highly preferred and relatively less attractive hosts.

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