Eightspotted forester, Alypia octomaculata
(Fabricius)
This is taken primarily from an extension
bulletin by D. G. Pfeiffer & P. B. Schultz, entitled "Major
Insect and Mite Pests of Grape in Virginia" (Va. Coop. Ext. Serv.
444-567 (1986))
Like the grape plume moth, this species is
not a major pest in commercial vineyards, but in the spring it is
seen more commonly in Virginia vineyards than most other grape
pests. The pupa is the overwintering stage.
Adults emerge and oviposit on grape shoots and leaves in May and
June. Moth are black with white and yellow markings (two yellow
spots on each forewing, two white spots on each hindwing) (Ohio
State University Image). The caterpillars feed on foliage,
leaving petioles and larger veins. The markings of the larvae are
distinctive, consisting of orange, yellow, black, and white
stripes. Although commercial vineyards are not damaged severely,
small areas within a vineyard may have concentrated infestations
and defoliation. Damage rarely occurs in two consecutive years.
When larvae are full-grown they drop to the ground to pupate in
soil, in trash on the ground, or in crevices in old wood. There
are probably two generations annually.
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