Spatio-temporal dynamics of the date moth

The Ectomeylois ceratoniae date moth is one of the most damaging pests of Algerian date production. The polyphagy of this insect, and its wide spatial distribution on a variety of hosts, make it difficult to develop an effective control strategy. The population dynamics of the moth were studied in an organic palm grove in the Sidi Khaled region (Biskra, Algeria), made up of young and old palms. Comparative captures by pheromone traps and the evolution of temporal infestation in three cultivars, Deglet Nour, Mech Degla and Degla Beidha, were studied during the date ripening period, from October to February. The Deglet Nour variety is the most attacked. In relation to the phenology of the palms, captures and infestations are higher in the young palm grove, reflecting the presence of 3 generations of the moth.