Cotton Leaf Roller
Common NameCotton Leaf Roller
Scientific NameSylepta derogata
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)30
Primary Colorspale yellow, brown
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, areas with host plants
Geographic RangeTropical and subtropical Africa, Asia, Australia
Host Plantscotton, okra, hibiscus, jute
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions; warmer months in subtropical areas
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on leaves, and larvae roll leaves to feed and pupate inside, causing significant damage to host plants. Multiple generations occur annually.
Identification TipsRecognizable by its pale wings with distinctive wavy brown patterns; larvae are known pests of cotton and other Malvaceae plants.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with pale yellowish-white wings adorned with intricate, wavy brown lines and dark spots, and a pale body with dark markings.
