Grape plume moth, Pterophorus periscelidactylus(Fitch)
This is taken primarily from an
extension bulletin by D. G. Pfeiffer & P. B. Schultz, entitled
"Major Insect and
Mite Pests of Grape in Virginia" (Va. Coop. Ext. Serv. 444-567 (1986))
While this pest is not a major problem in
commercial vineyards, it may be one
of the most frequently seen spring pests on grape in Virginia. Eggs are
laid
in groups of two to ten on vines. Caterpillars are light green with
white
hairs, and are about 20 mm long. They feed on the upper leaf
surfaces, tying the edges together with silk. Pupation occurs in early
to
mid June. The adult appears in late June. The moth is light brown with
lighter
markings, possessing narrow, plumed wings, and is about 14 mm long.
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