Grape Leaffolder – Desmia funeralis

Grape Leaf folder – Desmia funeralis Common Name: Grape Leaf folder Latin Name: Desmia funeralis Appearance:  The Grape Leaf folder is a small, slender moth with a wingspan of about 2 cm. The wings are brown with white and dark markings. Eggs: The eggs of Grape Leaf folders are oval and white and are laid singly on the undersides of grape leaves. Pupae: The pupae are found in a silken cocoon on the grapevine or nearby vegetation. Larvae: The larvae of Grape Leaf folders are green and about 1 cm long. They create a shelter by folding grape leaves and feeding them inside. Adults: The adult Grape Leaf folder is a small, brown moth that emerges from the cocoon in early summer. Host plants: Grape Leaf folders primarily feed on grape vines, but they can also be found on other plants, such as apples and pears. Territory: Grape Leaf folders are found throughout the eastern United States. Damages caused by Grape Leaf folder: Grape Leaf folders can cause significant damage to grape vines by feeding on the leaves and creating shelters. The damage can reduce vine growth and yield and make the plant susceptible to other pests and diseases. Life history and habitat: Grape Leaf folders overwinter as pupae in cocoons on the grapevine or nearby vegetation. In the spring, the adult moths emerge and mate. Females lay their eggs on the undersides of grape leaves, and the larvae hatch and begin feeding inside the folded leaves. There are usually two to three generations per year.