Pickleworm Moth
Common NamePickleworm Moth
Scientific NameDiaphania nitidalis
FamilyCrambidae
SubfamilySpilomelinae
Wingspan (mm)28
Primary Colorsbrown, purplish-pink, yellowish-cream
HabitatAgricultural fields, gardens, areas with cucurbit host plants
Geographic RangeSoutheastern United States, Central America, South America, Caribbean; migrates north seasonally
Host Plantssquash, cucumber, cantaloupe, pumpkin, gourds
Flight PeriodMultiple generations per year in warm climates; May to October in temperate regions
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Lifecycle NotesLarvae are pale green with black spots (disappearing in later instars), boring into the fruits, flowers, and stems of cucurbit plants. Pupation occurs in a silken cocoon, often within a folded leaf.
Identification TipsDistinguished by the iridescent purplish-pink and yellowish-cream markings on the hindwings and inner forewings, and the prominent yellowish-orange anal tuft. Can be confused with the Melonworm Moth (*Diaphania hyalinata*), which has mostly white wings with a dark border.
Description
A small to medium-sized moth with dull brown forewings, iridescent purplish-pink and yellowish-cream patches on the hindwings and inner forewings, and a distinctive yellowish-orange tuft at the end of its abdomen.
