Vitacea scepsiformis

(Edwards, 1881)

Lesser Grape Root Borer Moth

Vitacea scepsiformis, the lesser grape root borer moth, is a clearwing moth in the Sesiidae. It occurs across eastern and central North America, where its larvae develop as root borers in grapevines (Vitis ). are active from mid-summer through early autumn and are mimics in appearance. The species is smaller than the related grape root borer (Vitacea polistiformis) and generally considered less economically damaging.

Monograph of the Sesiidæ of America, north of Mexico (Pl. XXX) (7400747694) by Beutenmüller, William. Used under a Public domain license.Vitacea scepsiformis by Carroll E. Younce. Used under a CC BY 3.0 license.Vitacea scepsiformis, seen in Gainesville, FL by Ninafundisha. Used under a CC BY-SA 4.0 license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Vitacea scepsiformis: /vɪˈtæs.iə skɛp.sɪˈfɔr.mɪs/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Identification

have a wingspan of approximately 23 mm. They exhibit typical sesiid clearwing moth with reduced wing scaling that creates transparent areas, giving a -like appearance. Distinguished from the larger grape root borer (Vitacea polistiformis, wingspan ~25-30 mm) by smaller size and more northerly distribution. Both share the characteristic narrow wasp-waisted body form and yellow-orange and dark coloration typical of sesiid wasp mimics.

Images

Habitat

Associated with vineyards and wild grape . Larvae occur underground, feeding within the roots of grape plants. are found in and around grape-growing areas.

Distribution

North America, from New York south to Florida and west to Texas, Kansas, and Missouri.

Seasonality

are on wing from July to October.

Diet

Larvae feed in the roots of Vitis (grapes).

Host Associations

  • Vitis - larval larvae feed in roots

Human Relevance

A minor pest of cultivated grapes. Less damaging than Vitacea polistiformis; larvae feed in roots but densities and individual size generally result in reduced economic impact compared to the greater grape root borer.

Similar Taxa

Tags

Sources and further reading