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Cydia conicolana

Pine nut moth

Description

Cydia conicolana, also known as the pine nut moth or pine-cone piercer, is a small moth with a wingspan of about 11 mm. It was found in many parts of Europe. The moth prefers pine species, especially Pinus sylvestris (Scots pine) and Pinus nigra (black pine), where its larvae bore into young cones to feed on seeds. The larvae overwinter inside the cones, emerging in spring as adult moths. Adult moths are active during May and June, flying mainly in the morning, afternoon, and dusk. Damage caused by Cydia conicolana is generally minimal, with cone infestation rates rarely exceeding 5%.

Symptom

Infested pine cones may exhibit small round exit holes after the larvae have emerged, with little external damage otherwise visible.

Tree Species: Pine

Part of a plant- attacked: Fruit / Seed

Pest significance: Less harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes