Old World Bollworm vs Cattle Biting Louse

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Old World Bollworm Cattle Biting Louse
Scientific Name Helicoverpa armigera Bovicola bovis
Order Lepidoptera Phthiraptera
Family Noctuidae Trichodectidae
Size 35-40 mm wingspan 1.5-2 mm
Habitat Farmland Farmland
Diet Fruit Feeders Omnivores
Regions Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania, South America Europe, Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Oceania
Conservation Not Evaluated Least Concern

Old World Bollworm

One of the most destructive agricultural pests globally, attacking over 200 crop species. Larvae bore into cotton bolls, tomato fruits, and legume pods.

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Did You Know?

It has developed resistance to nearly every class of insecticide used against it, making it one of agriculture's toughest pests.

Cattle Biting Louse

A chewing louse that infests cattle worldwide, causing irritation and economic losses in livestock. Infestations worsen in winter when cattle have thick coats.

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Did You Know?

Winter infestations of this louse can cause cattle to rub and scratch so intensely that they damage fences and lose significant weight.