Squash Vine Borer Moth (Melittia cucurbitae)
The squash vine borer moth is a member of the family of clearwing moths. They are often mistaken for wasps because of their movements.
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Scientific Classification
- Family: Sesiidae
- Genus: Melittia
- Scientific Name: Melittia cucurbitae
Description and Identification
Caterpillar
The caterpillars are white and have dark heads. They have three pairs of legs, five pairs of pro-legs, and are covered with bristles. Initially, they are 1.5-2 mm in length, but by the final instar, they reach 25mm.
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Pupa
Pupae are mahogany brown, 14 mm long, and pupate inside a silk cocoon.
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Adult Moth
Sexual Dimorphism: Present.
Adult males are smaller and more colorful than females.
Color and Appearance
The adults are 16 mm long, resemble a wasp, and have an abdomen covered with orange to reddish hairs and black dorsal dots.
Forewing: When open, scales can be seen on them, giving the wings a metallic green or black sheen. This remains even when the wings are closed.
Hindwing: When open, the wings can be seen lacking scales, making them look transparent. When closed, the wings are hidden completely.
Average wingspan: 25 to 38 mm
Flight pattern: Erratic and diurnal
Season: mid-May to late October
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Eggs
They are dark-reddish brown and are flat but oval. Their dimensions are 1 mm in length and 0.85 mm in width.
Quick Facts
| Distribution | North America; including southeastern Canada, Florida, eastern U.S., and Mexico |
| Habitat | Gardens |
| Lifespan of Adults | Females: 5 days; Males: 3 days |
| Host Plants | Primarily summer squash and pumpkin; also, cantaloupe, cucumber, Mexican gourd, and watermelon |
| Adult Diet | Nectar from flowers |
Did You Know
- American entomologist Thaddeus William Harris first described this species in 1828.
canr.msu.edu
Scientific Classification
- Family: Sesiidae
- Genus: Melittia
- Scientific Name: Melittia cucurbitae
