What is pistachio worm?

Pistachio worm is a common pest that affects pistachio trees, specifically the kernels of the nuts. The worm, also known as navel orangeworm, is the larvae of a moth that lays its eggs on the pistachio trees. The larvae then burrows into the pistachio nut, feeding on the nutmeat and causing damage.

The pistachio worm is a major concern for pistachio growers as it can significantly reduce the quality and yield of their crop. It is also a concern for consumers as the presence of the worm can render pistachio nuts inedible and unsafe for consumption.

To control the pistachio worm, various methods are used such as monitoring and trapping, sanitation, and the use of insecticides. In addition, some pistachio growers use a technique called mating disruption, which involves releasing pheromones to confuse the male moths and disrupt their mating behavior.

Overall, effective management of the pistachio worm is crucial for the health and sustainability of pistachio orchards and the pistachio industry as a whole.