Codling Moth

Common: Codling Moth

Scientific: Cydia pomonella

Crop Hosts: Apples, pears and several other tree fruits and nuts.

Identification and Life Cycle: The codling moth overwinters as a full-grown larvae in a thick silken cocoon. In mid-spring the larvae change to pupae and grayish adult moths emerge. The females lay eggs 2 to 6 weeks after bloom and the young larvae feed slightly on the leaves before moving to the developing fruit. After entering the fruit they work their way to the core and become full grown in 3 to 5 weeks. They then leave the fruit, spin a cocoon and repeat the life cycle. One to three generations can occur per year.

Geographical Distribution: Throughout all tree fruit and nut-growing areas in the United States.

Damage and Treatment:  Apple/pear fruit attacked by the insect have holes eaten into them. Even "stings" of less than 1/4 inch severely lower the grade of the fruit. Codling moth can cause nutlets to drop from the tree. Second and third generations feed on kernels, making nut unmarketable.

Treatment should be made when insect populations and/or damage levels reach economic thresholds. Refer to local University Extension Pest Management Guidelines for specific state thresholds.