Pheromone Trap Monitoring

Non-Chemical
Effectiveness:
Cost Level
Medium
Environmental Impact
Low
Resistance Risk
Low
Target Pests
8 species

Target Pests (7)

Common NameScientific NameCategory
Indian Meal MothPlodia interpunctellaStored Product Pests
Mediterranean Flour MothEphestia kuehniellaStored Product Pests
Cigarette BeetleLasioderma serricorneStored Product Pests
Drugstore BeetleStegobium paniceumStored Product Pests
Confused Flour BeetleTribolium confusumStored Product Pests
Red Flour BeetleTribolium castaneumStored Product Pests
Rice WeevilSitophilus oryzaeStored Product Pests

Application Method

Install species-specific pheromone traps in food storage areas, warehouses, pantries, and other locations where stored product pests are concern. Each trap uses synthetic sex pheromone lure specific to target species to attract male insects to sticky glue board. Place traps away from infested products initially to monitor for presence - typically 1 trap per 1000-2000 sq ft. Once infestation confirmed, move traps closer to suspected source areas to pinpoint location. Check traps weekly and count catches by species. Replace lures every 6-8 weeks as pheromone degrades. Replace glue boards when surface covered or monthly. Graph trap catches over time to identify infestation trends, seasonal patterns, and effectiveness of sanitation and treatment efforts. Critical tool for food facilities to demonstrate pest monitoring for HACCP and third-party audits.

Timing

Install before product arrival in warehouses or as soon as facility opens. For existing accounts, install during initial inspection.

Frequency

Check traps weekly in active season, bi-weekly during low season. Replace lures every 6-8 weeks. Replace glue boards monthly or when covered. Maintain year-round monitoring.

Preparation Required

Identify target pest species to select appropriate pheromone lures. Create facility map for trap placement. Number traps and prepare catch record forms. Calculate number of traps needed based on facility size.

Follow-up Required

Count and identify catches by species. Record data on standardized forms. Graph trends over time. Use catch data to pinpoint infestation sources. Combine monitoring with sanitation, product rotation, and targeted treatments. Provide reports to customer for audit compliance.

Safety Precautions

  • Keep traps away from food contact surfaces
  • Do not place in areas with strong competing odors
  • Place out of reach of children
  • Wear gloves when handling used boards with insects
  • Do not over-trap - can deplete pheromone effectiveness
Important Disclaimer: The information provided in this knowledge base is for educational and reference purposes only. Pest management professionals should always consult current product labels, Safety Data Sheets (SDS), manufacturer instructions, and applicable local, state, and federal regulations as the definitive source of truth. Product formulations, application methods, safety requirements, and regulations may change over time. This information may be out of date and should not replace professional judgment, proper training, or required licensing and certifications.