Fauna Details

Common Name African Bollworm Moth
Family Noctuidae (Owlet Moths)
Date Observed 03-12-2023
Category Insects
Catalogue No. Z6095RG
Breeding/ Spawning Time Summer
When Observed NIGHT TIME
Locations Observed
Estuary
Koppie
Nature Reserve
Small Holding
Village Many
Greater Rooiels

Helicoverpa armigera

Information

African Bollworm Moth

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Source: Wikipedia
Helicoverpa armigera is a species of Lepidoptera in the family Noctuidae. It is known as the cotton bollworm, corn earworm, Old World (African) bollworm, or scarce bordered straw (the lattermost in the UK, where it is a migrant). The larvae feed on a wide range of plants, including many important cultivated crops. It is a major pest in cotton and one of the most polyphagous and cosmopolitan pest species. It should not be confused with the similarly named larva of the related species Helicoverpa zea.

 Distribution
This species comprises two sub-species: Helicoverpa armigera armigera is native and widespread in central and southern Europe, temperate Asia and Africa; Helicoverpa armigera conferta is native to Australia, and Oceania. The former sub-species has also recently been confirmed to have successfully invaded Brazil and has since spread across much of South America and reached the Caribbean. It is a migrant species, able to reach Scandinavia and other northern territories.