Eggplant Fruit and Shoot Borer
Common NameEggplant Fruit and Shoot Borer
Scientific NameLeucinodes orbonalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)20
Wing Patternspotted
Primary Colorswhite, reddish-brown, dark brown
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, areas of eggplant cultivation
Geographic RangeSouth Asia, Southeast Asia, parts of Africa, Australia
Host Plantseggplant, tomato, potato, chili pepper
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions
Flight Stylefluttering
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae bore into eggplant shoots, flower buds, and fruits, causing significant damage. Pupation occurs in a cocoon on the plant or in the soil, with multiple generations per year.
Identification TipsLook for its small size, the distinctive pattern of reddish-brown patches and dark spots on whitish forewings, and its presence in areas where eggplant and other solanaceous crops are grown.
Description
A small moth with whitish forewings adorned with prominent reddish-brown patches and dark spots, and a pale, somewhat robust body.
