Squash Vine Borer Larvae

Melittia satyriniformis

Symptoms:
Mature, fruiting plants begin to wilt under mild stress, often before evidence of stem damage is noticed. Plant soon wilts and dies. The stem is often completely eaten, except for a few stringy remnants of the vascular tissue. Squash is most susceptible. The larvae are white and grub like in appearance. Adult moths are "clear wing" types, since the hind wings lack scales.

See also the Extension Entomology Insect Answers.

Control:
Consult the COMMERCIAL or HOME GARDEN version of the current guide for controlling insects on vegetables for labelled chemicals and rates.

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