European Grapevine Moth
What Does the European Grapevine Moth Look Like?
The adult male European grapevine moth, lobesia botrana, has creamy white forewings with a pale-yellowish overlay and deeply bluish-gray coloring. Black, yellow and light olive-brown markings are moderately defined and spread across the wing. The hind wing is white with weak scales and a dark gray sub-basal line. The forewing of the female is similar in coloration and markings. However, the hind wing of the female is completely dark gray.
The larvae of the European grapevine moth have a yellowish brown head and an abdomen varying from yellowish green to whitish brown or brown, and can grow to approximately 9-10 mm long. The body can be completely translucent, leaving the gut visible. Larvae have short and retracted antennae.
When was the European Grapevine Moth First Found in California?
The European grapevine moth was first confirmed in California in September 2009 – the first detection in the United States.
Where is the European Grapevine Moth Currently Found in California?
The European grapevine moth is currently found in a small area near Oakville in Napa County.
What Types of Plants Does the European Grapevine Moth Infest?
The European grapevine moth favors grapes and other berries but the host list includes cherry, cucumber, ivy, lilac, nectarine, olive, pomegranate and rosemary.
What Kind of Damage Can the European Grapevine Moth Cause?
The European grapevine moth can feed on the flower or fruit of host plants, most often grapes. If the moth attacks mature grape clusters, for example, the berries can become further damaged through infection of a fungus called botrytis, also known as bunch rot. This causes a decay of plant tissue and possible death. The second and third generations are the most economically damaging, as they directly and severely affect mature berries through larval feeding.
What Could That Damage Mean to California's Economy?
The European grapevine moth is considered an economic pest of considerable importance in other countries. California's grape-producing regions may be suitable habitat for the moth, which causes more damage to thinner-skinned wine grape varieties such as chardonnay, zinfandel and pinot noir. Because of the possibility of rapid population growth and availability of many potential hosts, negative impacts similar to those experienced in other countries may be possible in California.
Are Quarantine and/or Eradication in Place for the European Grapevine Moth?
Adult detection surveys have been conducted in portions of Napa and Sonoma counties. These adult detection activities are suspended during cooler weather when the moth overwinters in the pupa stage of development. Surveys for pupae will continue where possible during the winter months. Adult surveys will continue in the spring.
Federal and State officials impose agricultural quarantines for the pest as appropriate. To date, detections of European grapevine moth are within an area already regulated for Light Brown Apple Moth.
What Methods are Used to Control the European Grapevine Moth Population?
No control methods have been decided on yet, though a variety of methods may be used singly or in combination to control European grapevine moth. Those methods could include biological controls in combination with chemical pesticides. For more information on pest management techniques, visit the Pest Management page.
What Can We Do?
Do not bring or mail fresh fruits, vegetables, plants or soil into California unless agricultural inspectors have cleared them. Never remove fresh produce from your property when your area is under quarantine.
