Grape hawk moth

The grape hawk moth (Ampelophaga rubiginosa) is a lepidopteran insect belonging to the family Sphingidae. It is recognized as a significant pest in viticulture, particularly in regions where environmental conditions favor the development of large sphinx moths.

The primary hosts for the larvae of this species are plants within the Vitaceae family, most notably cultivated Vitis vinifera. The larvae, or caterpillars, are voracious feeders that target the foliage, showing a strong preference for tender leaves on young shoots.

The life cycle encompasses four distinct stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Adults are nocturnal moths that are rarely seen during the day. Eggs are typically laid individually on the underside of grape leaves, and the resulting caterpillars undergo several molts before pupating in the soil or organic debris beneath the vines.

The primary economic damage is caused by the caterpillars defoliating the vines. Severe infestations can result in total leaf loss, which drastically reduces the vine's capacity to synthesize energy, thereby weakening the plant, reducing fruit quality, and compromising the development of buds for the following season.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is essential for controlling Ampelophaga rubiginosa. The following practices are recommended:

• Regular field scouting to detect the presence of egg batches or early-stage larvae.
• Mechanical removal and manual destruction of larvae on smaller or domestic plots.
• Application of Bacillus thuringiensis based biological controls during the early larval stages.
• Soil cultivation around the base of the vines to disrupt the pupation sites and destroy over-wintering pupae.
• Strategic use of registered insecticides when larval density exceeds the economic threshold.