Cotton Tipworm Moth
Common NameCotton Tipworm Moth
Scientific NamePectinophora gossypiella
FamilyGelechiidae
SubfamilyPexicopiinae
Wingspan (mm)14
Wing Patterncryptic
Primary Colorscream, light brown, dark brown
HabitatAgricultural fields, especially cotton plantations, and areas with other Malvaceae host plants.
Geographic RangeGlobal, particularly in tropical and subtropical cotton-growing regions (e.g., Asia, Africa, Americas, Australia).
Host Plantscotton (*Gossypium spp.*), okra (*Abelmoschus esculentus*), hibiscus (*Hibiscus spp.*)
Flight PeriodMultiple generations per year, active throughout the growing season of host plants.
Flight Stylefluttering
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on cotton bolls or squares. Larvae bore into the bolls, feeding on seeds and lint, causing significant damage. Pupation occurs within the boll or in the soil.
Identification TipsKey features include its small size (10-18mm wingspan), the characteristic mottled brown and cream forewing pattern with dark spots, and its association with cotton plants.
Description
A small, slender moth with mottled forewings displaying a mix of cream, light brown, and dark brown scales, often with distinct dark spots or streaks, and long, filiform antennae.
