Not known to transmit any human or animal pathogens.

Not known to vector any pathogens or other associated organisms but damage may lead to invasion by secondary pests.

Traps should be placed at least 1.5 m (5 ft) high. When trapping for more than one species of moth, separate traps for different moth species by at least 20 meters (65 feet).

The wing trap and large plastic delta trap are the preferred traps. The wing trap and the diamond trap are both effective traps for Thaumatotibia leucotreta. In order to standardize data and trap procurement, it is preferable that states use the wing or large plastic delta trap. However, if states find reason to use the diamond trap, it is acceptable for negative data reporting. Diamond traps will not be available through the Survey Supply Ordering Database.

Attaching lures to traps

IMPORTANT: Do not include lures for other target species in the trap when surveying for this target.

Lures should be changed at least every 56 days

A Likelihood of Establishment Map is now available. This survey should only be considered in the states with appropriate conditions and suitable hosts for this moth. The map was produced by the SAFARIS Team. SAFARIS is a modeling framework that enables PPQ to quickly respond to emergencies, efficiently survey for pests, and assess potential pest impacts by collecting critical geospatial data and developing predictive models. SAFARIS is developed and maintained by the NC State University, Center for Integrated Pest Management (CIPM) with support from the PPQ-S&T Plant Pest Risk Analysis (PPRA) Laboratory. The SAFARIS team used a likelihood of establishment model for false codling moth occurrence in the continental United States to support CAPS survey planning. The model predicts the suitability of an area for false codling moth occurrence based on the likelihood of favorable conditions for the pest occurring using tools and data within SAFARIS. The detailed method used in this assessment is described here.

Surveys should occur when fruiting of host plants begins. Surveys are best conducted during warm, wet weather when the population of the pest increases.

Thaumatotibia leucotreta is a generalist and feeds on over 50 different plant species. Important host crops include avocado, citrus, corn, cotton, macadamia, peach, and plum (USDA, 1984; 2010). Surveys should focus on areas that have abundant host material. This can be in agricultural settings, nursery settings, or around ports of entry.

Male T. leucotreta are unlikely to be confused with any native North American tortricid. Females may appear superficially similar to other Grapholitini and a genitalic dissection may be necessary to confirm identity. Not present in U.S.: Cryptophelbia peltastica, Mussidia nigrevenella, and Thaumatotibia batrachopa. Genitalia or male secondary sexual characters can be used to separate T. leucotreta from these other species.