Cherry Fruit Moth
Common NameCherry Fruit Moth
Scientific NameArgyresthia pruniella
FamilyArgyresthiidae
Wingspan (mm)12
Primary Colorscream, brown, dark brown
HabitatOrchards, gardens, woodlands, areas with cherry and plum trees
Geographic RangeEurope, North America (introduced), parts of Asia
Host PlantsPrunus avium, Prunus cerasus, Prunus domestica, Malus domestica
Flight PeriodMay to July
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesThis moth is univoltine, producing one generation per year. Larvae bore into the developing fruit of host plants, feeding on the pulp and around the stone, before pupating in the soil or under bark.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size, the mottled cream and brown forewing pattern with a dark costal streak, and the characteristic resting posture with the head slightly raised and antennae held forward.
Description
A small moth with cream-colored forewings mottled with various shades of brown, featuring a distinct dark brown streak along the costa and a prominent tuft of scales at the wing apex.
