Hairy Rice Caterpillar
Common NameHairy Rice Caterpillar
Scientific NameCnaphalocrocis medinalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)18
Wing Patternstriped
Primary Colorswhite, brown, black
HabitatAgricultural fields, grasslands, wetlands
Geographic RangeAsia, Africa, Australia
Host Plantsrice, maize, wheat, sugarcane, grasses
Flight PeriodYear-round in tropical regions, multiple generations
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesEggs are laid on host plant leaves. Larvae (caterpillars) are green and roll leaves to feed inside, causing significant damage to crops like rice. Pupation occurs within the rolled leaf.
Identification TipsLook for the distinctive dark, wavy transverse bands on the forewings against a lighter background. Often found in rice paddies or areas with host grasses. The caterpillar is a green leaf-roller.
Description
A small moth with a white head and thorax, and forewings marked with prominent dark brown to black transverse bands on a light brown and white background. The hindwings are generally lighter with faint markings.
