Tortrix moths are a family of moths. More than 2,500 species are found in Britain. Characteristic of tortrix moths is that they live inside a rolled or folded leaf or are spun in between leaves.
Do not confuse with:
Leaf-rolling weevils (Attelabidae)
Tortrix moths (Tortricidae) are a family of moths. More than 2,500 species are found in Britain. Characteristic of tortrix moths
The caterpillars of the tortrix moth eat leaves, shoots and buds.
Tortrix moths have a wingspan between 10 and 40 mm and the wings are folded over the body at rest, protecting the body. Most Tortrix moths have covered colors grey, brown, green). The head of the tortrix moth is covered with scales.
Parasitoid wasps and predatory bugs are among the natural enemies of tortrix moths.
Where to find
- Deciduous trees, shrubs and herbaceous plants in the ornamental and vegetable garden
Control
Difficult to control: because the caterpillars are hidden, they are largely inaccessible to natural enemies.
In horticulture, tortrix moths are controlled with biological agents in the form of nematodes (Steinernema carpocapsae) and predatory bugs (Macrolophus caliginosus).
Prevention
Fit the windows of plants in greenhouses with Insect Netting to keep tortrix moths out.
