Managing False Codling Moth [thaumatotibia Leucotreta] in Horticultural Crops: Farmer Perceptions and Evaluation of Pheromone Traps

Abstract

Horticulture is a primary foreign income earner in Kenya after tourism and tea. Recently, vital horticultural crops, i.e., Capsicum spp. (Solanales: Solanaceae) and roses (Rosa spp., Rosales: Rosaceae) have faced continuous international market interceptions due to phytosanitary non-compliance associated with False codling moth (Thaumatotibia leucotreta, Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae)). False codling moth (FCM) has been listed as a harmful quarantine pest in the European Union (EU) category A2 for purposes of regulation and control. This study aimed at improving False codling moth (FCM) management in smallholder Capsicum and rose farms by assessing the knowledge, perceptions and management practices of the pest by the farmers and determining the efficacy of pheromone traps as a mass trapping tool of FCM under greenhouse conditions. This study was accomplished through field surveys to administer a structured questionnaire to 108 farmers, followed by focused group discussions. The farmers were drawn from ten Counties where Capsicum are grown and where FCM was reported. The survey sought to establish production limitations, like, inputs, pests, losses attributed to pests, farmer's ability to identify FCM and its damage, FCM challenge control methods and their effectiveness. Other questions included farmers' awareness of horticultural crops export interceptions due to pests and pesticide residues, the role of extension and research services in combating pest problems and the role of cultural practices like intercropping in tackling pest challenges...