Overview
The species Cydia pomonella is commonly known as codling moth, a pest to such hosts as apples, crab apples, pears and soft fruits. The larvae of this species are extremely destructive, especially to apples, causing damage to the fruit itself and thus leaving it unmarketable; therefore, early scouting of this species of pest is extremely important.
Main description
The copper spot in the forewings distinguishes male codling moths from other small moths found in pheromone traps. Mature larvae are dirty white or pinkish, with a mottled brown head, whereas young larvae have black heads. Codling moth larvae are commonly mistaken for oriental fruit moth larvae. The mature moth can reach up to 1 cm in length while the mature larvae can reach up to 1.5 cm in length.
Scouting
When scouting, a technique commonly used is pheromone traps. Start degree-day accumulation of the codling moths to determine the first spray timing. Use traps to monitor presence and abundance of male moths throughout the season. Examine fruit for larval entries (stings) into fruit. Ideally, an insecticide control measure should be applied with the presence of a high adult infestation or when the peak of oviposition in the fruits is reached.
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