Evaluation of infestation by Lobesia botrana (Dennis et Schiffermüller)(Lepidoptera, Tortricidae) and its relation to territorial differences and cultivar susceptibility

Abstract: A three year study (2008-2010) was carried out in two organically managed vineyardsin western Sicily to verify both the influence of different cultivars and microclimatic conditionson grape moth infestation and on mould infections of grapes. Observations were done on twoautochthonous cultivars (Inzolia and Catarratto) and four international ones (Chardonnay,Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot). Results showed a different degree of infested grapesamong the different cultivars in both farms but also a different level of infestation between thetwo farms for the same cultivar. Chardonnay was the most infested cultivar by the grape mothlarvae, while Merlot was the less infested one. Botrytis cinerea was almost absent on the majorityof the cultivars, while the sour bunch rot was always present. This disease was sometimes presenton all infested grapes. On the other hand, Aspergillus was present at very low levels on themajority of the cultivars.