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Gelechia senticetella

Description

Cypress groundling Gelechia senticetella is a small moth species of the family Gelechiidae associated mainly with coniferous shrubs and trees. Larvae develop primarily on junipers (Juniperus spp.), but they also occur on cypresses and related genera such as Thuja, Chamaecyparis and Cupressus. In early instars, caterpillars mine needles and young shoots, later they feed externally while living inside silken tubes or tent-like shelters within the crown. The species overwinters as a larva and has one generation per year. It occurs mainly in gardens, parks and natural stands with juniper or cypress presence. The intensity of attack is usually not strong, but local mass occurrence has been recorded, especially in southern Europe, where repeated feeding may worsen the overall health condition of host plants and significantly reduce their aesthetic value. The species is distributed across most parts of Europe and is expanding its range in areas with increasing use of ornamental host plants.

Symptom

Mined needles and shoots are present, later connected by silken tubes or nests. Damaged needles are partially hollowed, discoloured and mixed with frass inside the webbing.

Tree Species: Juniper, Cypress, Thuja

Part of a plant- attacked: Leaf / Needle

Pest significance: Harmful

Pest Category: Insects

Invasive Species: No

Present in EU: Yes