The olive moth, a pest originally native to the Mediterranean region, was first sighted in Lower Austria in 2002. This butterfly can travel several hundred kilometers thanks to favorable wind conditions and has probably managed to cross the Alps. The increasingly warmer temperatures and the high number of tropical nights in 2024 have led to rapid reproduction and spread in the Pannonian region.

The olive moth, also known as the jasmine moth , poses a particular threat to young olive plantations. Its caterpillars prefer to feed on fresh shoots and young leaves, which leads to severe defoliation. This can stop the plants' photosynthesis, which can severely weaken the trees, especially in their youth, or even cause them to die.

A typical damage caused by this moth, which is caused by feeding on the leaves, can easily be confused with damage caused by sunburn (the so-called "magnifying glass effect"). This is caused by the concentration of sun rays, which are amplified by water droplets on the leaves like a magnifying glass. However, olive trees and other Olea plants are not susceptible to this effect due to their thick and resistant leaves.

control options

To control the olive moth, pheromone traps are used to attract the male moths and thus interrupt the reproductive cycle. In addition, the use of natural enemies such as parasitoids or the targeted use of ecological insecticides may be necessary. Preventive measures such as regular inspections and the removal of infected leaves can help to avoid major damage.