Golden twin spot

Chrysodeixis chalcites

Golden twin spot (Chrysodeixis chalcites) is an exotic moth that feeds on leaves and fruits of many herbaceous plants. It is also a greenhouse pest. If introduced into Michigan, this insect potentially poses a threat to vegetable, fruit, flower and greenhouse producers.

Plant hosts
The moth is a general feeder on many herbaceous weeds and crops including vegetable, fruit and ornamental hosts. Its crop hosts include cauliflower, chrysanthemum, corn, crucifers, geraniums, greenhouse crops, legumes, soybeans, potato, strawberries and tomatos (USDA APHIS PPQ).

Identification

  • Adult: About 40 mm wingspan and 15-18 mm long; forewing gold to bronze in ground color and has two silver oval spots that are similar in size (hence the common name golden twin spot); wings fold over the body at rest.
  • Larva: Up to 38 mm long; body pale green with a light longitudinal stripe along each side; head green; moves like an inch-worm.
  • Pupa: About 20 mm long; body pale green ventrally with a dark brown dorsal stripe, or body entirely brown.

The larvae of the golden twin spot look similar to those of the native noctuid moth, the soybean looper (Pseudoplusia includens).

Plant Protection Products