European grapevine moth

The European grapevine moth (Lobesia botrana) is a significant pest belonging to the order Lepidoptera and the family Tortricidae. It is a major threat to viticulture, primarily known for its destructive impact on grapevines across Europe, the Middle East, and parts of the Americas and Africa.

While grapes are the primary host, Lobesia botrana is polyphagous and has been recorded on various other plants. This list includes orchard crops like apple and pear, as well as field crops such as fodder beet, oilseed rape, cabbage, barley, peas, and potatoes, reflecting its adaptability in different agricultural ecosystems.

The life cycle typically involves several generations per year. Overwintering occurs in the pupal stage within a cocoon in protected areas, such as bark crevices or soil debris. Adult moths emerge in spring, followed by several cycles of mating and egg-laying during the growing season.

Damage is caused by the larvae, which feed on flower buds, developing berries, and ripening grapes. Larval feeding webs clusters together and creates entry points for secondary infections, particularly Botrytis cinerea (gray mold), which significantly reduces the marketable yield of the vineyard.

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is essential for control. This includes mating disruption using pheromone dispensers, regular monitoring with sticky traps, and the targeted application of insecticides or biological control agents during specific windows of larval development to ensure maximum efficacy.

• Mating disruption pheromone techniques
• Biological control using predators and parasitoids
• Proper canopy management to increase airflow
• Targeted insecticide applications based on scouting