Small Fruit Tree Borer
Common NameSmall Fruit Tree Borer
Scientific NameGrapholita prunivora
FamilyTortricidae
SubfamilyOlethreutinae
Wingspan (mm)10
Primary Colorsbrown, white, metallic
HabitatOrchards, fruit groves, areas with host trees
Geographic RangeNorth America (widespread in fruit-growing regions)
Host Plantsapple, plum, cherry, peach, hawthorn, crabapple
Flight PeriodMay to August (multiple generations)
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are internal feeders, boring into developing fruit of various Rosaceae species. Pupation occurs in cocoons, often in soil or under bark. There are typically two or more generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for a small, mottled brown moth with a metallic sheen on the forewings, often with a pale, irregular band or patch near the wing tip. Its association with damaged fruit on host trees is a strong indicator.
Description
A small moth with a fuzzy white head and thorax, and forewings that are mottled dark brown to bronze with a distinct metallic sheen and some silvery-white markings. The wings are held tent-like over the body at rest.
