Trap for trees with a trunk perimeter of less than 130 cm
Trap designed for the capture of the caterpillars of the pine processionary moth (Thaumetopoea pityocampa), specially adapted taking into consideration the biology and behavior of the pest, whose control proves to be of great sanitary importance in the Mediterranean zone, given that:
- The pine processionary moth is a very common pest in pine forests and isolated pines (Pinus spp.) in southern Europe. However, it can also be found in firs (Abies spp.) and cedars (Cedrus spp.);
- In the larval stage it feeds voraciously on the pine needles, causing severe defoliation of the trees, which can lead to their early death. On the other hand, the caterpillar is covered with urticating hairs that can break off and float in the air. Accidentally the caterpillars may also come into contact with humans or animals. In most of these occurrences, contact with the hairs or with caterpillars causes problems of allergic reactions and urticaria lesions, which can be serious or even severe, representing a real danger to humans and animals;
- Thus, the control of the presence of this pest, whether in forest areas or in public / private gardens, is of special importance due to the possibility of the occurrence of serious / severe accidents, therefore representing a public health issue.
The trap for the capture of caterpillars must be used as a complement to the use of the methodology for monitoring the adult stage of the pest (carried out from May to November), through the use of pheromones for capture in a trap. It must be installed from November / December onwards on the trees where the development of nests is observed, since the descent in procession of the caterpillars occurs during the month of January / February. Its installation on the trunk of the pines interrupts the descent in procession of the caterpillars towards the ground, thus allowing the biological cycle to be broken in its caterpillar stage, since it prevents pupation and the subsequent development of the adult of the pest. One trap must be installed per tree where the presence of nests is observed.
Each PROCESAN® trap contains:
- Foam elastic: Dual-density foam elastic (polyethylene and polyurethane) (200 cm x 4.5 cm x 4 cm), specially developed to adapt to a wide variety of tree trunks;
- Translucent sheet: Wrapping / barrier (polypropylene) (200 cm x 10 cm x 1 mm) that prevents the escape of the larvae;
- Reservoir: Tank (polyethylene) (18 x 8 x 27 cm) for collecting the larvae with specific geometry to maximize captures. One main entrance (upper) and two handles for fixing to the tree;
- Funnel: Part (polypropylene) that allows the coupling between the different foam parts and the collection tank;
- Lid: Part (polypropylene) to cover the reservoir during maintenance operations;
- Foam wedge: Foam strip (polyurethane) (15 x 4.5 x 4 cm) that allows a perfect coupling between the foam and the transparent blade;
- Sling: Strap (polyester) (200 x 2 cm) with a metal clasp that stabilizes the trap by securing the tank to the tree trunk;
- Small foam wedge: Foam strip (polyurethane) (15 x 4.5 x 2 cm) that allows the perfect coupling between the foam, the tank and the funnel;
- Adhesives: 2 double-sided acrylic adhesives (10 x 5 cm), developed for outdoor use.
All the components that make up the trap have protection against UV radiation, which prevents their degradation and allows their reuse over several years.
Dose: 1 trap/tree (on trees with multiple trunks, you must install one trap on each trunk/branch).
For trees with a trunk perimeter greater than 130 cm, please consult the PROCESAN® XL trap, developed for trees with a larger trunk perimeter.
