Old World Bollworm vs Spiny Oak Slug Moth

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Old World Bollworm Spiny Oak Slug Moth
Scientific Name Helicoverpa armigera Euclea delphinii
Order Lepidoptera Lepidoptera
Family Noctuidae Limacodidae
Size 35-40 mm wingspan 22-30 mm wingspan
Habitat Farmland Orchards
Diet Fruit Feeders Omnivores
Regions Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania, South America Eastern North America
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.

Spiny Oak Slug Moth

A small colorful moth with green, brown, and silver-spotted forewings. Its flattened, jewel-like caterpillar is green with red and yellow markings and bears stinging spines.

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Did You Know?

The ornate caterpillar has been called one of the most beautiful in North America despite its painful sting.