Southern Pink Moth

Overview

Southern pink moth (Pyrausta inornatalis, Family: Crambidae) is a moth species that feeds on plants in the genus Salvia (Lamiaceae), such as mealycup sage (Salvia farinacea) and related cultivars. The species is also known as the crambid snout moth or inornate pyrausta moth and was first discovered in the U.S. in 1885. The moth's range extends from the eastern US, west to Kansas and south into Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, California and Mexico. In recent years, the moth's range has extended into Oregon in 2020 and Washington state. 

The forewings of adult southern pink moths are a solid, rose-pink color with buff-tipped fringe on the edges. Their wingspan reaches approximately 1/2 in. (13 mm), and the two wings form a triangle when the moth is at rest. Their wings have no distinctive markings, distinguishing them from other Pyrausta moth species which typically have whitish or yellow markings. The hindwings are grayish, with a tinge of pink on the outer edges. Its tan-colored antennae and mouthparts (palpi) extend beyond its large, yellow-green eyes. Larvae have translucent, pale-green colored bodies and prominent rows of black spots. However, their coloration may be influenced by the host plant they feed on. Full grown larvae reach about 2/5 in. (11 mm) in length. 

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Damage to plants is caused by the larvae, which bore into the buds and flowers of Salvia plants. They will often leave behind fine webbing and frass in and around their feeding area. 

Life Cycle

The life history of the southern pink moth is poorly documented. In the Midwest, the larvae have been seen feeding on the buds and flowers of Salvia plants in the summer. The larvae then pupate in a filmy cocoon attached to a plant. Adults are active from summer to early fall, where they are often seen resting on plants or nectaring on flowers. 

Integrated Pest Management Strategies

1. Live with the insect. Damage caused by larvae is an aesthetic issue and typically no treatment or management is needed. 

2. Remove damaged flowers. If damage becomes significant, remove infested buds and flowers or handpick larvae and discard. 

3. Chemical treatments - Not available. There are no known chemical treatments available to treat southern pink moth, as the life history of the insect is not fully understood. Products containing Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis ssp. kurstaki) are known to control the larval stages of moths and butterflies. However, it cannot be used as a treatment for southern pink moth if the insect is not listed on its label. 

Organic Strategies

Strategies 1 & 2 are a strictly an organic approach. 

Pesticide Disclaimer: 

Always follow the product's label and ensure the product is effective against bagworms. Not following the pesticide label before usage is a violation of federal law.