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The Fig-Leaf Skeletoniser Moth (Choreutis nemorana), also known as the Fig-Leaf Roller, is a small moth with a wingspan of about 10-15mm. Its forewings are brown with a vivid pattern of white and dark brown stripes and spots. Its hindwings are usually lighter in colour.
The caterpillars of the Fig Skeletoniser Moth, which are harmful to fig trees, are green with yellow stripes and have small black dots along their bodies. The caterpillars often spin leaves together with silky threads, which will indicate the presence of an infestation.
Since the species first arrived in the U.K. in 2014, sightings have increased and the pest is spreading. This may be due to the fact that the Fig-Leaf Skeletoniser Moth does not have many natural predators. In addition, the increased planting of more winter-hardy fig trees is enabling the species to expand.
The caterpillars will scrape the upper side of the leaves as they feed. This creates a transparent 'skeleton' of the leaves, showing the veins of the leaf. The figs themselves are fortunately not affected but severe and continued damage to trees could decrease yields. Young fig trees are also particularly vulnerable to infestation.
The caterpillars will hide under webs to avoid detection. The black dots within the webbing are eggs, from which further caterpillars will emerge.
The caterpillars of the Fig-Leaf Skeletoniser Moth can be controlled naturally with our Fig-Leaf Skeletoniser Moth Killer Nematodes. These microscopic nematodes can be sprayed over the tree, ideally with a dedicated nematode sprayer such as our Nema Super Sprayer, with applications aimed to ensure the nematodes come into direct contact with the pest. Once the nematodes have made contact with the caterpillars, they will enter the pest and kill it from inside.
To avoid the development of further caterpillars, try to remove as much webbing as possible. This will prevent more eggs laying in the infested fig tree.
