Lobesia

Lobesia is a genus of moths in the family Tortricidae, subfamily Olethreutinae. The genus comprises numerous species found in temperate regions of Europe, Africa, and Asia, with some members having established populations in the Americas through human activity. The best-known species is Lobesia botrana, the European grapevine moth, a significant pest of grapevines.

Adult Lobesia moths are small, typically with wingspans around 8–15 mm. They usually hold their forewings folded roof-like over the body when at rest, and display subtle brown to gray patterns with cross-lines. Larvae are caterpillars that feed within plant tissues, often rolling or tying leaves to conceal themselves while feeding on flowers, shoots, or fruits.

The life cycle includes egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages. Eggs are laid on host plants, with larvae feeding and developing through several instars before pupating in silken cocoons, frequently in the canopy or plant litter. In grapevines, Lobesia botrana larvae damage inflorescences and developing berries, causing direct yield loss and enabling secondary fungal infections.

Ecology and distribution: Lobesia species occur in a range of habitats where host plants are available. The genus has a significant economic impact in agriculture, particularly where grapes are cultivated. Management of Lobesia botrana commonly involves monitoring with pheromone traps, mating disruption, biological control agents such as Bacillus thuringiensis and entomopathogenic fungi, and, when necessary, chemical controls. The species has become regionally widespread beyond its native range, leading to quarantine and regulatory measures in some wine-producing areas.