Pecan Nut Casebearer
- The Pecan Nut Casebearer - Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service
- Mating Disruption of Pecan Nut Casebearer - Southwestern Entomologist
- Controlling Pecan Nut Casebearer - Texas Cooperative Extension, Texas A&M University
A Case for Monitoring and Management
- Found in all major pecan growing regions of the U.S
- Larvae feed initially on buds, then tunnel into the nutlet
- First generation larvae usually result in the most damage
- Once inside the nut, insecticides are relatively ineffective
Pecan Nut Casebearers can deposit 50 to 150 eggs during their five to eight day life span. Larvae feed initially on buds and then tunnel into developing nuts. Casebearer larvae feed for 4-5 weeks, enter the pupal stage inside the nut where a moth emerges 9-14 days later to continue the cycle. Two to four generations per year are common depending on temperature. .
For effective intervention with insecticides, it is necessary to monitor pecan nut casebearer population levels. Pheromone-baited traps can help determine when to begin scouting for first generation casebearer eggs.
Contact local extension resources for specific regional recommendations regarding pest management strategies and control options.
Traps
A paper or plastic delta trap can be used to monitor populations. Another option is the wing trap.