Larch Bud Moth
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Hagle, S.K; S. Tunnock; K.E. Gibson; and C.J. Gilligan. 1987. Field Guide to Diseases and Insect Pests of Idaho and Montana Forests. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service. State and Private Forestry, Northern Region. Missoula, Montana. Reprint 1990. Publication Number R1-89-54.
Contents |
Hosts
Western larch. Mainly in high altitude, overstory stands. Distribution. -- Throughout host range.
Damage
Larvae consume needles and frequently gouge out one side of new shoots. Outbreaks usually last 1 to 2 years with little permanent damage.
Identification
Look for larvae in needle clusters, needle tubes lined with silk (fig. 122), or webbed needles from May through July. The first four instars are yellow-brown with dark brown heads. The fifth instar is dusky black with an almost black head and is about one-half inch long. Larvae drop to the ground by August and pupate in the duff. Moths fly in August and lay eggs which will overwinter under lichens and in other niches on a tree.
Similar damage
Damage is similar to larch sawfly damage, but larvae are easily distinguished one from the other.
References
- Furniss, R. L., and V. M. Carolin. 1977. Western For. Insects. USDA Forest Serv., Misc. pub. 1339, 654 p., illus.
