Ash-grey pinion

The Ash-grey pinion moth (Lithophane laticinerea) is a species of moth belonging to the family Noctuidae. It is recognized as a potential pest in agricultural settings, particularly in orchards, where its larvae feed on the foliage and buds of deciduous trees during the early spring season.

The host range of this species includes a variety of pome and stone fruit trees, such as apple, pear, and cherry. While not always reaching outbreak proportions, its feeding habits during the critical bud-burst stage can cause significant localized damage to the potential fruit yield of the season.

The biological cycle of this moth is distinct, as it overwinters in the adult stage. As temperatures rise in early spring, the moths emerge, mate, and deposit eggs on the bark or near the buds of host plants. The larvae develop rapidly, coinciding with the opening of tree buds, which provide an essential nutrient source for their early growth.

Larval feeding causes the most severe damage by consuming developing buds and young leaves. In cases of high infestation, this can lead to defoliation of branches and a reduction in fruit set. Furthermore, the resulting physical wounds on the buds may predispose the trees to further stress or secondary pathogen attacks.

To mitigate the impact of this pest, farmers and orchardists should implement integrated pest management practices:

• Monitor adult flight activity using pheromone or light traps to determine the optimal timing for treatments.
• Apply dormant or early spring insecticide treatments targeting larvae before they reach maturity.
• Encourage natural predators such as parasitic wasps and predatory birds within the orchard ecosystem.
• Maintain orchard hygiene by removing debris that provides winter shelter for the moths.