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Southeastern Apple ProductionENTOMOLOGY |
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Redbanded Leafroller
Argyrotaenia velutinana (Walker)
Description
Adult redbanded leafrollers (RBLR) are 1/2 inch long moths with a reddish brown band running obliquely across the forewing (hence the common name). Full-grown larvae are about 3/4 inch long and vary from light yellowish green to deep grass green. Pupae are light greenish brown when first formed, but eventually change to a deeper brown. Eggs are laid in masses averaging 45 eggs per mass.
 Adult |
 Larva |
 Egg mass |
Life History
In the Southeast, the spring moth flight is followed by two full generations and a partial third. Pupae overwinter in leaves on the ground, emerging at or before the green tip stage. Adult flight peaks shortly before bloom. Eggs of the first generation are laid mainly on the trunk and scaffold limbs. Larvae, upon hatching, crawl up the limbs in search of food. First generation feeding is generally confined to the center of the tree, especially to tender growth on water sprouts. Eggs of subsequent generations are laid primarily on the upper surface of the leaves. Larvae feed on the foliage, and as they reach maturity, they roll or web several leaves together to form shelters. Some larvae feed on fruit under the protection of an attached leaf, and some feed at the site where two fruit are in contact. Fruit feeding by third generation larvae during September is sometimes damaging.
Damage
Though common, RBLR is seldom economically damaging. Larvae can harm leaves by skeletonizing the underside close to the midrib, folding and webbing the leaf together. Second and (more often) third generation larvae may feed on the fruit surface, often beneath a white web or leaf that is webbed down to protect the feeding site. Larvae may also attack the cavities at the calyx and stem ends as well as the places where two fruit touch.
 Skeletonized leaf shelter |
 Surface feeding |
Monitoring and Control
Insecticidal control for the larval stage is most effective when sprays are applied shortly after the peak adult emergence. This kills not only moths but also eggs and newly-hatched larvae. Sprays applied during the late June or early July moth flight are also usually effective. Pheromone traps can be used to monitor adult activity. Biological control plays an important role in maintaining populations of RBLR at low levels.
Insect and Mite Management Overview
Insect and Mite Index
Southeastern Apple Production Mountain Horticultural Crops Research & Extension Center 455 Research Drive Mills River, NC 28759 Phone: 828.684.3562 ~ Fax: 828.684.8715 Email: jim_walgenbach@ncsu.edu |
Web Crafters: Anne S. Napier and
Steve Schoof |
Updated March 8, 2007