Narrow-bordered five-spot burnet

The narrow-bordered five-spot burnet (Zygaena lonicerae) is a moth belonging to the Zygaenidae family. While these moths are often admired for their vibrant colors and day-flying habits, their larval stage can act as a pest, causing damage to various honeysuckle species and related plants.

This species primarily feeds on the foliage of Lonicera (honeysuckle) and occasionally on various species of Trifolium (clover). It is often found in hedgerows, meadows, and gardens where host plants are abundant, making it a potential nuisance in both ornamental and agricultural landscapes.

The life cycle is typically univoltine, meaning there is one generation per year. Larvae overwinter in a state of diapause, often low down in vegetation or near the soil surface. During the spring, they emerge to feed actively on leaves, eventually spinning their characteristic papery, spindle-shaped cocoons on stems or leaves.

Damage is characterized by irregular holes and skeletonization of the leaf blades. In cases of high larval density, the plants may suffer from significant defoliation, leading to reduced photosynthetic capacity and overall physiological stress, which can stunt plant growth and reduce berry yield in fruit-bearing varieties.

Effective management strategies should focus on monitoring and cultural practices:

• Regular inspection of honeysuckle foliage for the presence of larvae.
• Removal and destruction of leaf litter and weeds that provide shelter for overwintering larvae.
• Manual removal of cocoons and larvae where feasible in small-scale plantings.
• Application of targeted bio-insecticides or standard insecticides if the damage threshold is exceeded during the intensive growth season.