Ruby Tiger moth

Systematic position. The Ruby Tiger moth (Phragmatobia fuliginosa) is a member of the order Lepidoptera, family Erebidae, and subfamily Arctiinae. It is a well-known species found across the Palearctic region, often appearing in meadows, gardens, and agricultural landscapes.

Host plants. This species is polyphagous, meaning its larvae feed on a wide range of plants. Common hosts include strawberries, raspberries, various legumes, and common weeds such as plantain or dandelion, allowing the pest to thrive in diverse environments.

Biology and life cycle. The species typically produces one or two generations per year. The winter is spent in the larval stage, protected within cocoons hidden under plant debris or in the soil. As temperatures rise in spring, the larvae pupate, eventually emerging as adult moths that mate and lay eggs on the leaves of host plants.

Type of damage. Young larvae primarily skeletonize leaves, consuming the green tissues between veins. As they grow into larger instars, they become capable of consuming entire leaves. This intensive feeding reduces the photosynthetic capacity of the plant, stunts growth, and can significantly decrease overall crop yield.

Control measures. Effective management starts with cultural practices such as cleaning garden beds of debris, which eliminates wintering sites. Integrated management includes:

• Regular monitoring of foliage during the spring growing season.
• Manual removal of caterpillars in small gardens.
• Application of selective biological insecticides when larval density exceeds economic thresholds.