The peach tree borer (Synanthedon exitiosa) is a pest of peach, cherry, plum, nectarine, and apricot trees. The adult peach tree borer is a type of clear wing moth and are active during the day. The female and male moths differ in appearance. The female is dark, steel blue with one or two wide orange bands around her abdomen. Her front wings are opaque while the hind ones are clear. The male moth is smaller and slenderer. It is also steel blue, but has several narrow-yellow bands around the abdomen. Both pairs of wings are clear.
DAMAGE
Damage to the trees is caused by the larval stage, with younger trees being the most susceptible. Larvae tunnel into the roots and lower trunks feeding on the cambium and inner bark of the tree trunk, generally just below and above the soil line. Young trees may be completely girdled and older trees may have their crop bearing capacity greatly reduced. Infested trees may yellow and eventually die as the larvae girdle the tree. Infestation by the peach tree borer is often identified by oozing of gum around the base of the tree. The gum is usually mixed with dirt and reddish-brown frass. Frequently empty brown pupal cases can be found around the base of damaged trees, either at the head of the larval gallery or in the soil close to the tree
There are sustainable solutions for the peach tree borer.
For more information contact your local BioBee field agent.
