The light brown apple moth (Epiphyas postvittana), which is native to the cooler, wetter coastal regions of Australia, was found in parts of California in 2007. Like other members of this moth family (Tortricidae), it has a wide host range that includes ornamentals, fruit trees, berries and grapes.
Larvae that grow to about 10-18 mm in length are pale to medium green with a tan coloured head. Adult moths are medium tan often with oblique markings of darker tan to brown.
There likely would be two generations under our conditions.
Partly grown overwintering larvae feed on grape buds in spring and continue to feed on developing shoots, tender leaves and flower clusters as they mature. Damage to fruit later in the season reduces the crop and allows the entry of disease organisms.
Light Brown Apple Moth, on the University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program website, in the Agricultural Pests section
