Moths infest Napa and Sonoma vineyards

Published: 12 May, 2010

More than 200 square miles of Californian vineyards have been quarantined because of moth infestation.

The European grapevine moth first appeared in Napa last September and has spread to Sonoma County. There are fears that the pest may have infested vineyards outside of the current quarantine zone and already one grower lost his entire harvest to the moth.

Napa County agricultural commissioner Dave Whitmer said: "This is an invasive moth, something that doesn't belong in Napa County or anywhere in this country. We're doing all we can, working with our state and federal partners, to track this pest and determine our response as quickly as possible."

The University of California is working with the industry on ways to control the moth, which measures between 6mm and 8mm. Young larvae feed on flower clusters in May and June, and older larvae on the berries themselves.

Females produce up to 160 eggs in a lifetime, which are laid singly and not in masses.

Experts say the moths can only fly 100 metres, so are only likely to colonise vineyards outside the current quarantine zone with the aid of transport.

The California Wine Institute said: "Vineyard owners, biologists, local, state and federal agricultural officials have mobilised in a region-wide effort to stop the pest. Currently, they are utilising bendable wire devices that disrupt moth mating by releasing female pheromones into the air. Other options, including the use of predator insects, are being considered."

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