Climate-Induced Shifts in the Population Dynamics of Synanthedon myopaeformis in Apple Orchards

¹Fruit Growing Institute, Plovdiv; Agricultural Academy, Sofia, Bulgaria/ Ostromila 12, 4000

Synanthedon myopaeformis (Borkhausen, 1789) (apple clearwing moth) has traditionally been classified as a secondary pest in Bulgarian apple orchards. However, consistent annual captures using pheromone traps, combined with recent studies from 2025, indicate a shift in population dynamics. During peak flight periods, the average number of captured individuals exceeds 25, suggesting increased pest pressure. This study presents preliminary results from the first year of a scientific project focused on the impact of climate change on entomofauna development. A strong correlation has been established between species activity and rising temperatures, supporting the hypothesis that changes in climatic factors accelerate emergence and intensify infestation levels. The findings underscore the need to reassess the pest’s phytosanitary status and to adapt integrated pest management systems for apple cultivation.

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Abstract

Keywords: Synanthedon myopaeformis; apple orchards; climate change; pest dynamics; integrated pest management.