The Silver Y moth – a migratory pest posing a high risk to crops in the Republic of Moldova
Specialists are warning about the potential emergence of the Silver Y moth (Autographa gamma), a migratory pest already reported in Romania and possibly active soon in the territory of the Republic of Moldova.
This moth is a polyphagous pest capable of attacking a wide range of crops: legumes (peas, alfalfa, soybeans), vegetables (lettuce, cabbage, potatoes, beans), as well as cereals and industrial crops such as sunflower. It prefers broad-leaved plants and develops rapidly under high temperature conditions.
The moths are medium-sized and active both during the day and at dusk, laying their eggs on the underside of leaves. The larvae can cause significant damage by feeding on plant tissue, directly impacting crop yields.
Recommendation: Plant protection specialists recommend closely monitoring crops during this period.