How to control, recognize and prevent fig skeleton moth

The fig skeleton moth ( Choreutis nemorana ) is a small moth that can be recognized by a few striking features. The moth has a wingspan of about 10 to 15 millimeters and its forewings are brown with a striking pattern of white and dark brown stripes and spots. The hindwings are usually lighter in color and less striking.

The caterpillar of the fig skeletonizer moth, which is harmful to fig trees, is green with yellow stripes and small black dots along its body. This caterpillar often spins leaves together with silky threads, which can help identify the presence of the moth.

Since the species has established itself in the Netherlands, you have seen more and more moths and caterpillars appearing. This is because the fig skeleton moth does not have many natural enemies. In addition, more and more winter-hardy fig trees are being planted, allowing the species to expand well.

The caterpillars of the fig skeleton moth scrape the upper side of the leaves. This creates a transparent 'skeleton' of the leaves: the veins of the leaf. The figs themselves are fortunately not affected.

The caterpillars hide under webs. The black dots in the webs are eggs, from which caterpillars crawl. Advice is to remove the web as much as possible, before the caterpillars hatch.

The caterpillars of the fig skeleton moth can be environmentally controlled with Felti or Carpo nematodes . Microscopic nematodes are sprayed over the tree with a garden sprayer. If a nematode comes into contact with the caterpillar, the nematode crawls into the caterpillar and kills the pest.