Japanese many-plumed moth

The Japanese many-plumed moth (Alucita japonica) is a specific pest belonging to the family Alucitidae, order Lepidoptera. This species is characterized by its unique wing structure, which is divided into narrow lobes, resembling a fan. Despite their small size, these insects can cause significant damage to ornamental and berry crops in gardens.

The primary food source for the Japanese many-plumed moth is various species of honeysuckle (Lonicera). Adults and larvae concentrate mainly on the flowers and developing ovaries of the plants. Less frequently, the pest can be found on closely related crops if they are growing in close proximity to the infestation sites.

The biology of this species is closely tied to the phenological stages of the host plant. Typically, adult moths overwinter in sheltered locations, such as under bark or in fallen leaves. When warmer weather arrives, they lay eggs directly on the buds. Upon hatching, the larvae bore into the flower, where they feed on the internal tissues, leading to deformation and premature dropping of the ovaries.

Damage symptoms manifest as twisted buds, browning, and eventual wilting. Because the larvae lead a concealed life inside the flower tissues, detecting them at early stages is extremely difficult. The pest activity leads to a sharp decline in berry yields, and in cases of high population density, to the complete loss of the ornamental value of honeysuckle plants.

To protect plantings, a comprehensive approach is recommended. Effective control measures include:

• Hand-picking and destroying damaged buds at the beginning of the flowering period.
• Applying insecticides during the peak flight period of adult moths.
• Timely pruning and disposal of plant debris where overwintering individuals may gather.
• Utilization of biological control agents based on entomopathogenic fungi.