Crops Affected: Maple

States Affected: TX, OK, KS, NE, AR, MO, IA, MN, WI, IL, IN, MI, OH, PA, NY, NJ, DE, CT, RI, MA, VT, NH, ME, WV, MD, VA, KY, TN, NC, SC, GA, FL, LA, MS, AL

Life Cycle: The larvae of the clearwing moth bore into maple trees, particularly around wounds. With one generation annually, adult moths emerge from April to July, swarming tree trunks and laying eggs on the bark. Larvae create individual burrows in the bark and cambium, where they will overwinter. In spring they pupate in the burrow, and at emergence they wriggle forward, rupturing thin layers of bark and protruding from the trunk.

Damage: Maple tree infestation by larvae causes calluses and round exit holes near wounds. Brown frass, mainly excrement pellets, may be present. Continuous inner bark and sapwood feeding weakens trees, leading to decline, potential girdling, or death. Injuries create deformities, scars, and vulnerability to decay and wind damage, impacting forest integrity.

Season to Trap: April to July

How To Use: Hang trap with lure inside at shoulder height near at risk or affected crops. Replace lures every 30 days through the season, and replace traps when 70% saturated. Adult males are attracted to the pheromones in the lure and the color of the traps in this kit. Once they land on the sticky trap, they become ensnared, never to mate or lay eggs again.

Additional IPM Solutions: Avoid practices that destroy or disrupt native beneficial insects. Prevent damage to trees, as they are most commonly found around wounds. Keeping trees vigorous and irrigated during prolonged drought helps to reduce borer injury. Sprays can be used when adults are present.