Beet Webworm Moth
Common NameBeet Webworm Moth
Scientific NameSpoladea recurvalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpoladeinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, cream, black
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, disturbed areas, open woodlands
Geographic RangeCosmopolitan (tropical and subtropical regions worldwide, migrating to temperate zones)
Host Plantsbeet, spinach, amaranth, alfalfa, beans, cotton, corn, various weeds
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropics; multiple generations from spring to fall in temperate regions
Flight Styledarting
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae, known as webworms, feed on host plant leaves, often creating silken webs. Pupation occurs in a cocoon, usually in the soil or leaf litter, with multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsKey features include the mottled brown and cream forewing pattern with a distinct dark, wavy subterminal line and a pale outer margin. Its small size and association with various agricultural crops and weeds are also indicative.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with mottled brown and cream forewings, characterized by a prominent dark, wavy subterminal line and a pale band along the outer margin. The hindwings are typically paler with a dark border.
