Synanthedon castaneae

(Busck, 1913)
Chestnut Borer

Sort #: 1265 | P3 #: 640119 | MPG #: 2577
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Larval feeding type: Bores in trunks with no visible signs externally until the moth emerges, leaving the pupal exuvia at the exit hole
Larval substrate: Castanea dentata* (American Chestnut)
Phenology: Adult: 6/07 to 6/13 (2 records)

Comment: The species can probably be found in most places in SE Mass where the foodplant grows. The larvae mainly use the thicker trunks and especially those with cracks caused by chestnut blight. It is probably not restricted to this area, but it has not yet been looked for elsewhere. Freshly emerged adults can be looked for on chestnut trunks before 10am during the flight period. Males could possibly be attracted to S. pictipes or P. marginatum lures.

Status in MA (automated assessment): Restricted distribution, uncommon
Status in N. America: Native
MA Endangered Species Act status: None
First Year Reported: 2020
Last Year Reported: 2020

Distribution by County: Norfolk, Bristol, Plymouth
Number of Records: 9