Map-winged swift

Systematic position. The map-winged swift (Hepialus fusconebulosus) belongs to the order Lepidoptera and the family Hepialidae. This moth species leads a reclusive lifestyle, and its larvae are notorious soil-dwelling pests known to cause substantial damage to the root systems of various herbaceous and woody plants.

Host plants. The pest has a wide range of hosts. Larvae feed primarily on the roots of ferns, various wild grasses, and agricultural crops, including strawberries, hops, and young saplings of various tree species. They are particularly attracted to sites with moist, organic-rich soil, where they can thrive undisturbed for extended periods.

Biology and life cycle. The life cycle of the map-winged swift can span up to two years. Adult moths emerge in mid-summer and are active during the dusk and evening hours. After mating, females scatter their eggs onto the soil surface around host plants. Upon hatching, the larvae burrow into the ground to feed on roots throughout two growing seasons, overwintering in the soil before finally pupating.

Character of damage and harmfulness. The damage is exclusively caused by the larvae, which bore into the root structures. By consuming the roots, they disrupt the vascular transport of water and nutrients. Consequently, affected plants exhibit stunted growth, chlorosis, and wilting, often leading to total plant collapse if the root system is heavily compromised, resulting in significant yield losses.

Control measures. Controlling subterranean larvae presents a significant challenge. Recommended management strategies include:

• Regular soil cultivation and hoeing to disrupt the larvae's habitat and expose them to avian predators.
• Maintaining proper field hygiene by removing alternative wild host weeds.
• Application of biological control agents, such as entomopathogenic nematodes or fungi, which are effective in soil environments.
• Targeted use of soil-applied insecticides when larval activity is at its peak, following local regulations for specific crops.