Choreutis nemorana (Hübner, 1799) (Lepidoptera: Choreutidae) Pest of Fig in Siirt Province

Abstract

This study was carried out to determine the distribution, damage status and morphological characteristics of some biological periods of Choreutis nemorana (Hübner, 1799), a new pest of fig trees in Siirt province in 2019. The studies were carried out in 8 villages and a total of 20 orchards in the Central, Sirvan and Pervari districts of Siirt province. As a result of the study, C. nemorana was distributed in all districts, 16 of the 20 orchards observed were infected with the pest, and different biological stages of the pest were detected in 56% of the trees checked. The larvae feed on the upper and lower parenchyma cells of fig leaves. As a result of larval damage, curling, color change, feeding wounds and tears occur on the leaves. A cottony structure forms on the upper surface of the leaves and larval droppings are seen in this cottony structure. It is more common in July and August. Adults and larvae can be seen together at the beginning of August. When Choreutis nemorana is a newly widespread pest in fig areas, bio-ecological studies should be carried out to control this pest.