Squash Vine Borer

Melittia satyriniformis

image of Squash Vine Borer image of Squash Vine Borer
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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.

Control:
Consult the Vegetable IPM Web Site for recommended controls of this pest.

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Publication Revised July 2009