Mating disruption (MD) technology has been used very successfully in Europe, North America and even much closer to home in New Zealand. Australia has been slow to realise the true benefits of the technology. Historically we have relied on pheromone twist ties which are time consuming to apply and as a result growers will generally only apply them as once only full season treatment.
The effective alternative to twist ties is SPLAT (Specialised Pheromone Application Technology). SPLAT allows growers to easily apply MD pheromones either via caulking guns or using a mechanical applicator called the SPLATAGATOR. The SPLATAGATOR can deliver SPLAT MD material into an orchard at up to 12 ha/hr with one operator behind the wheel! This makes MD a highly cost effective option and gives growers the flexibility to be able to deliver MD product to the crop throughout the season for maximum effect.
Working with ISCA Tech, OCP have also been developing a range of insect attractants and Lure & Kill type products that are a perfect fit with the SPLATAGATOR applicator. The use of MD, Lure & Kill and highly selective Biologicals in combination with beneficial insects will send cover spraying with broad spectrum pesticides packing to the Dark Ages of Agricultural history!
The SPLATAGATOR
