European grapevine moth found in California

The European grapevine moth, Lobestria botrana, was found in California’s Napa Valley. It feeds primarily on the flowers and fruits of grape plants and spruge laurels. Other hosts include blackberry, gooseberry, black and red currant, olive, cherry, prune, persimmon, kiwi, pomegranate and carnation (Dianthus spp.). So far, eight adult moths and 29 larvae have been trapped.

Officials from USDA and the California Department of Food and Agriculture are working to set out traps and survey the area for additional moths. No regulatory action has been taken, but such regulation potentially could restrict the movement of Vitis, Prunus and other host species and their fruits.