(E,Z)-9-Dodecen-1-yl acetate

This compound belongs to the class of synthetic insect pheromones, specifically acting as sex attractants. Unlike traditional pesticides, it does not have toxic effects on the metabolism of insects or plants.

The core principle of its operation is chemical communication: the substance mimics the natural signal released by female pests to attract males.

When used in agronomic practices, the "mating disruption" method saturates the atmosphere with the pheromone, causing males to lose the ability to find females for mating.

This leads to a sharp decline in population size in the following generation, as a large portion of eggs in clutches remain unfertilized.

The substance operates with high selectivity, affecting only the target species without harming beneficial insects, bees, or the surrounding environment.

The active substance is primarily used against Lepidoptera insects, including various species of leafrollers and other fruit tree pests.

It effectively protects apple, pear, and peach orchards, as well as vineyards, from damage caused by caterpillars feeding on fruits and leaves.

• Leafrollers (family Tortricidae)
• Codling moths (various species)
• Harmful moths affecting fruit and berry crops

The application of this product significantly reduces the number of damaged fruits, which is crucial for achieving high-quality marketable produce.

The specificity of its action allows these pheromones to be integrated into modern biocontrol systems and organic farming practices.

Application rates depend on the type of dispensers (pheromone traps or diffusers) and the density of placement per hectare.

Traps are deployed well in advance of the mass flight of adults, which is determined based on monitoring data or pest phenology forecasts.

The effective life of a single dispenser usually ranges from 60 to 150 days, covering the activity period of one or two pest generations.

To achieve the maximum mating disruption effect, it is important to ensure uniform distribution of pheromone sources across the entire area.

Agronomists should regularly inspect the condition of the traps and replenish them if necessary, depending on the dynamics of the insect population.

The product requires proper storage in a cool place, preferably in airtight packaging, to prevent premature evaporation of the active ingredient.

The effectiveness of the method is noticeably reduced on small plots due to potential immigration of fertilized females from adjacent untreated areas.

Weather conditions, such as strong winds, can slightly influence the concentration of the pheromone cloud within the tree canopies.

It is recommended to combine pheromone use with other protection methods if the pest population density exceeds the economic injury level.

Mixing this substance with insecticides in the same container is prohibited, as pheromones are designed exclusively for use in specialized carriers (dispensers).