Peachtree Borer Moth - male
Synanthedon exitiosa
42.9615, -85.6557
Field Notes
Description:
The Peachtree Borer larvae are very serious pests, accounting for more damage to peach trees than all other insect pests combined. They damage younger trees by feeding on the cambium just above the soil level, unlike the Lesser Peachtree Borer (Synanthedon pictipes), which does not confine its activity to the lower trunk and prefers older trees. Young trees are particularly susceptible to girdling, which will eventually stop the flow of water and nutrients to the upper portion of the tree. The adults mimic wasps in appearance and are active during the day often seen nectaring from flowers.
Habitat:
Native to the U.S. - Found throughout the U.S. and Canada. May - September. Host Plants: Stone fruits (Prunus) including peach, cherry, plum, prune, nectarine apricot and ornamental shrubs.
Notes:
Control of the Peachtree borer relies on preventing the larvae from getting under the bark in the first place. Once under the bark chemical control is not effective.
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