Cranberry fruitworm

Definition

A small moth (Acrobasis vaccinii, family Pyralidae) whose larvae are a major pest of Vaccinium fruits, particularly cranberries and blueberries. The caterpillars tunnel into berries, consuming the flesh and filling them with frass, causing direct yield loss and secondary fungal infections. Native to eastern North America, introduced to the Pacific Northwest.

Etymology

From the larva's primary host plant (cranberry, Vaccinium macrocarpon) and its habit of feeding inside the fruit.

Example

In Massachusetts cranberry bogs, cranberry fruitworm management relies on pheromone monitoring to time insecticide applications before eggs hatch and larvae bore into developing berries.

Synonyms

• Acrobasis vaccinii

Related Terms

• blueberry maggot
• sparganothis fruitworm
• Vaccinium
• Pyralidae
• Frass
• pheromone trap
• Integrated Pest Management

Usage Notes

The common name refers specifically to Acrobasis vaccinii, not to be confused with the sparganothis fruitworm (Sparganothis sulfureana), another cranberry pest with similar damage symptoms but different biology and management timing. The species is sometimes called 'cranberry fruit worm' (two words), but entomological literature favors the closed compound.