New high-releasing pheromone mating disruption technologies applied at low point-source densities were compared to that of industry standard dispensing systems that emit lower concentrations of pheromone and are deployed at higher point source densities for control of codling moth in Michigan apple. Meso and aerosol dispensers show the most promise as cost-effective alternatives to high-density dispensers for mating disruption of CM. Males exposed to pheromone released from aerosol emitters show that they become sensitized rather than desensitized to pheromone emitted from lure baited traps. Dosage response experiments reveal aerosol emitters disrupt codling moth by the behavioral mechanism, competitive attraction, and that the optimal density is 5-7 units per ha. Pheromone conservation of 50% or more can be achieved by reducing the overall concentration, rate of emission, and period of release without a loss in percent disruption making increased dispenser density economically viable.
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