Corn stalk borer
Common NameCorn stalk borer
Scientific NamePapaipema nebris
FamilyNoctuidae
SubfamilyNoctuinae
Wingspan (mm)35
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorsbrown, tan
HabitatAgricultural fields, meadows, disturbed areas, gardens
Geographic RangeEastern North America
Host Plantscorn, ragweed, burdock, smartweed, tomato, potato
Flight PeriodAugust to October
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs overwinter on host plant debris. Larvae hatch in spring and bore into the stalks of various plants, including corn, causing damage. Pupation occurs in the soil.
Identification TipsAdults are generally plain brown with a characteristic dark line extending from the reniform spot on the forewing. Larvae are recognized by their boring behavior in plant stalks and a purplish-brown band around their body.
Description
This is a medium-sized, stout-bodied moth with dull light brown to tan forewings, often marked with faint darker lines and a few indistinct spots. The hindwings are typically paler brown.
