Can There Be Worms in Pomegranates? Identifying and Managing Fruit Borers

It is a common concern among fruit growers whether there are worms in pomegranates. Research indicates that pomegranate trees are susceptible to several insect pests. These pests, specifically larvae from various moth species, bore into the developing fruit and feed on the seeds and pulp within. Knowing how to identify and prevent these invaders is key to a healthy harvest and ensuring fruit is pest-free.

Quick Summary

Fruit borers, such as the carob moth and filbertworm, can infest pomegranates, with their larvae consuming the fruit's interior. Recognizing signs of infestation and using preventative measures are key to managing these pests.

Key Points

• Moth Larvae: The "worms" found in pomegranates are the larvae of moths, such as the carob moth and pomegranate fruit borer.

• Calyx Inspection: Inspect the calyx (crown) of the fruit for holes, frass, or webbing, as these are signs of infestation.

• Prevention is Key: Cultural practices like sanitation and fruit bagging are the most crucial preventative steps, as insecticides are often ineffective once the larva is inside.

• Ingestion is Harmless: Accidentally eating a fruit borer larva is generally harmless to humans.

• Integrated Pest Management: A comprehensive strategy that includes sanitation, physical barriers like fruit bagging, and biological controls such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is the most effective approach.

Understanding the Reality: Can Worms Be in Pomegranates?

Discovering an insect larva, often called a "worm," inside a seemingly perfect fruit is a disappointment. For pomegranates, this is a real possibility, as certain moth species lay eggs on or near the fruit. When the eggs hatch, the larvae burrow inside, where they feed on the juicy arils and developing seeds. While not harmful to humans if accidentally consumed, their presence makes the fruit unappetizing and ruins the harvest.

Common Pests Responsible for "Worms" in Pomegranates

Several moth species are responsible for these infestations, with the specific culprits varying depending on the geographical area. Common fruit borers that affect pomegranates include:

• Carob Moth (Ectomyelois ceratoniae): This moth is a significant pest in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions. Females lay eggs on the calyx (the crown) of the fruit, and the larvae burrow inside to feed.
• Pomegranate Fruit Borer (Virachola isocrates): Also called the anar butterfly, this pest is a major problem in many pomegranate-growing regions, especially in India. The larvae feed on the pulp and seeds, causing fruit to rot and drop prematurely.
• Navel Orangeworm (Amyelois transitella): Though more common in nut crops, this pest can also infest pomegranates, especially those with pre-existing cracks or wounds.
• Filbertworm (Cydia latiferreana): Occasionally, this pest affects pomegranates in California and other areas. The filbertworm larvae bore into the fruit similar to the codling moth.

Identifying Pomegranate Infestation

Infestations can occur even when the outside of the fruit appears healthy. Careful inspection can reveal signs of an active infestation. Look for the following:

• Entry/Exit Holes: Small holes, usually near the calyx, can indicate where the larvae entered or exited.
• Frass: Fine, powdery insect excrement, known as frass, is often found around entry holes and is a sign of a borer.
• Rotting or Dropped Fruit: Infested fruit often begins to rot from the inside out and drops from the tree prematurely. The rotting can produce a foul odor.
• Black Spots on the Skin: The carob moth, for example, can cause black spots on the fruit's skin as the interior rots.
• Webbing: The pomegranate fruit borer, in its later stages, can spin a web that attaches the infested fruit to its stalk or a branch.

Comparing Common Pomegranate Pests

Feature	Carob Moth	Pomegranate Fruit Borer	Filbertworm	Navel Orangeworm
Entry Point	Calyx of the fruit.	Calyx or flower buds.	Calyx or fruit skin.	Wounds or cracks in fruit.
Signs of Damage	Internal rot, black spots on skin.	Internal rot, premature drop, foul odor, webbing.	Frass at entry holes, internal rot.	Internal rot, silk and frass in tunnels.
Larva Appearance	Pale pink.	Dark brown with white patches, hairy.	Beige to pink with a dark head.	Milky white to pink.
Primary Damage	Feeding on seeds and pulp.	Feeding on seeds and pulp.	Feeding on fruit interior.	Feeding on fruit interior, opportunistic pathogens.

Preventing Pomegranate Infestations

Prevention is the most effective way to deal with "worms" in pomegranates, as chemical controls are often ineffective once the larvae are inside the fruit. An integrated pest management (IPM) approach combining cultural, organic, and potentially chemical methods is recommended.

Cultural and Physical Controls

• Orchard Sanitation: Remove all unharvested and dropped fruit from the area, as these can harbor overwintering larvae. This is critical for reducing pest populations for the next season.
• Pruning and Weeding: Remove weeds and alternative host plants from the vicinity of the pomegranate trees. Regular pruning improves air circulation and allows for better pest monitoring.
• Fruit Bagging: One of the most reliable methods for home gardeners is to bag individual fruits with butter paper, muslin, or coarse cloth once they reach about 5 cm in diameter. This creates a physical barrier that prevents moths from laying eggs on the fruit.
• Calyx Clipping: For pests like the pomegranate fruit borer that lay eggs on the calyx, clipping this part off immediately after pollination can prevent egg-laying.
• Pheromone Traps: These can be used to monitor moth activity and determine the best timing for other control methods.

Biological and Organic Management

• Introduce Beneficial Insects: Encourage natural predators, such as predatory wasps (e.g., Trichogramma species), lacewings, and ladybird beetles.
• Use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt): This naturally occurring bacterium is a highly effective, organically acceptable stomach poison for many types of caterpillars. It must be applied when larvae are small and actively feeding, so careful timing is essential.
• Neem Oil: Applying neem oil during the flowering stage can deter egg-laying and control certain pests.

Dealing with Infested Fruit

If you discover an infested pomegranate, discard it far away from your trees. Do not compost infested fruit, as this can allow pests to complete their life cycle. Cut out and discard the damaged parts of the fruit, as the arils in other sections are generally unaffected. While eating the larvae is not harmful, most prefer to avoid it.

For more detailed, regional information on specific pest management, consulting local university extension services is recommended. For example, the University of California Integrated Pest Management Program offers specific guidance on pests like the filbertworm and navel orangeworm, which can affect pomegranates.

Conclusion: A Proactive Stance is Key to Pest Management

In conclusion, it is possible to find insect larvae inside pomegranates, a result of pests such as the carob moth or pomegranate fruit borer. These larvae, often called worms, bore into the fruit to feed on the arils and seeds. Managing this problem requires a proactive and integrated approach, focusing on cultural practices like sanitation and fruit bagging, along with biological controls, such as Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). While accidentally consuming a larva is generally harmless, preventative efforts can ensure a pristine and delicious pomegranate harvest. Regular monitoring and timely action are the best defense against these unwelcome fruit invaders.

Inspecting Pomegranates for Worms

Before opening a pomegranate, check for external signs of internal infestation. Start by inspecting the fruit's crown (calyx) for frass, webbing, or entry holes. Check the fruit's skin for black spots or soft, rotting patches. A fruit that is abnormally colored, has a foul odor, or falls from the tree prematurely is likely to be infested. If any of these signs are present, cut the fruit open to inspect the inside or discard it entirely.

Understanding Pomegranate Season and Pest Timing

Knowing the life cycle of pests in your region is crucial for effective prevention. Many fruit borers are most active during the warmer months, with peak infestations sometimes occurring later in the summer and fall. Implement preventative measures like fruit bagging and apply Bt sprays during key egg-laying periods to offer the most protection. Consistent monitoring throughout the growing season is necessary to stay ahead of the pests.

Protecting Pomegranates From Various Pests

Pomegranates can be susceptible to a variety of pests beyond just fruit borers, including aphids, whiteflies, and mealybugs. While fruit borers cause internal "worm" damage, other pests can weaken the tree and create entry points. An IPM strategy that addresses all potential pests, including proper fertilization, water management, and encouraging beneficial insects, will lead to the most robust and healthy trees, and subsequently, a higher quality fruit harvest.

For more information on the navel orangeworm, a common pomegranate pest, consult this guide: https://ipm.ucanr.edu/agriculture/pomegranate/filbertworm/

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there really worms in pomegranates?

Yes, pomegranates can be infested by larvae of several moth species, often called worms or fruit borers. These pests lay eggs on the fruit's surface, and the larvae burrow inside to feed on the pulp and seeds.

Are pomegranate fruit borers dangerous to humans?

No, the larvae that infest pomegranates are not parasitic to humans and are not dangerous if accidentally consumed. They only feed on the fruit, making it unappealing for consumption.

What are common signs of worms in a pomegranate?

Common signs include small entry holes (near the calyx), powdery excrement called frass, premature fruit drop, internal rotting, and black spots on the skin.

How can I prevent worms from getting into my pomegranates?

Preventative measures include bagging young fruits with cloth or paper, maintaining orchard sanitation by removing old fruit and debris, clipping the calyx after pollination, and using pheromone traps to monitor pest activity.

Can I eat a pomegranate that has had a worm in it?

If you find a worm, discard the infested fruit. While the worms are not harmful, they can introduce opportunistic pathogens that cause rot. Cut out and discard any damaged sections.

What is the best treatment for pomegranate worms?

Once the larvae are inside, chemical treatments are ineffective. The best treatment is preventative, focusing on methods that stop the moths from laying eggs, such as fruit bagging and the timely application of biological insecticides like Bt.

How do I use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) for pomegranate pests?

Apply Bt when larvae are small and actively feeding, according to label rates. It is most effective when the weather is warm and dry, as the larvae are more active and consume more during this time.