Development of a large-capacity trap for controlling the coffee borer, Hypothenemus hampei Ferr in El Salvador

Mass trapping, which is currently being studied in El Salvador, is a promising alternative for controlling the coffee berry borer (CBB) H. hampei. Following numerous field trials to perfect the method and assess its efficacy, priority was given to the development of a large-capacity trap, culminating in industrial scale production and marketing. In this context, studies concentrated on the optimum rate of basic attractant diffusion and on comparing several models of traps. In light of the results obtained, and taking into account preliminary results and field observations, the first prototype traps especially designed to catch CBB were made. The BROCAP(R) model was finally developed combining the best characteristics of the prototypes, taking into account the following aspects: system functionality and simplicity, sturdiness of attachments and raw material quality. Trapping trials with different attractant formulations were carried out in the middle of a CBB migration period, to check that trapping was environment-friendly. The basic attractant made up of alcohols did not prove to be totally specific to coffee berry borers, but was found to be extremely environment-friendly for useful fauna in coffee plantings. On average, H. hampei accounted for 97 percent of all the insects caught.