A dreaded insect pest (also known as grape moth or vine moth) in viticulture, which belongs to the butterfly family. There are two species that can be distinguished visually, but whose way of life and damage pattern are almost identical. The single-banded grape berry moth (Eupoecilia ambiguella) with a black head capsule occurs mainly in northern areas. The name is derived from the broad band in the centre of the wing. The cross-banded grape berry moth (Lobesia botrana) with a honey-coloured head capsule occurs mainly in southern areas. Its cross-banding is strongly curved. Both species can be found in Central Europe. They have been known as a major vine pest since the Middle Ages. The caterpillars feed on flowers, fruit and leaves. They are characterised by the plant parts spun into a living tube.
Overwintering takes place as a spun-in pupa, with the pests favouring the cracks in the bark of the stems. The moths hatch...
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