PestMedium Severity

Clearwing Borers

Sesiidae family (various species)

A family of moths whose larvae bore into wood and plant roots, causing serious damage to fruit trees, timber, and ornamental plants. Adults have transparent wings and wasp-like appearance, enabling daytime activity through Batesian mimicry. Many species are significant pests of cultivated trees.

Peak Season: Adult flight: Typically during warm monthsEgg laying: Peak during adult emergence periodsLarval activity: Variable, often year-round in protected galleriesDetection: Most effective during adult flight periodsPheromone trapping: Used for monitoring and control
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Clearwing borer showing typical boring damage and exit holes in tree bark

Identification & Symptoms

What to Look For

Entry holes in bark where larvae have bored into wood
Sawdust-like frass around boring sites
Wilting or yellowing of affected branches
Bark swelling or galls around larval galleries
Clear sap or pitch exudation from entry points
Crown dieback in heavily infested trees

Potential Damage

Larval tunneling weakens tree structure
Girdling damage from extensive boring
Secondary infections through wound sites
Branch breakage from structural compromise
Economic losses in fruit and timber production
Root damage affecting tree stability

Lifecycle

Adults are day-flying moths with transparent wings and wasp-like coloration. Females lay eggs on bark or near root zones. Larvae bore into wood or roots, creating tunnels where they feed and develop. Pupation typically occurs within the larval galleries. Multiple species have varying life cycles.

Professional Treatment Approach

1

Imicide applications targeting adult emergence periods

2

Systemic treatments with Imisol for comprehensive protection

3

Pheromone trapping for monitoring and mass trapping

4

Trunk and root zone treatments for active infestations

5

Timing treatments with adult flight periods for maximum effectiveness

Recommended Mauget Products

Imicide

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against clearwing borers.

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Imisol

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against clearwing borers.

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