Pink Bollworm vs Hawk Moth (Australian Privet Hawk Moth)
Side-by-side species comparison
| Attribute | Pink Bollworm | Hawk Moth (Australian Privet Hawk Moth) |
|---|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Pectinophora gossypiella | Psilogramma menephron |
| Order | Lepidoptera | Lepidoptera |
| Family | Gelechiidae | Sphingidae |
| Size | 15-20 mm wingspan | 100-120 mm wingspan |
| Habitat | Farmland | Woodlands |
| Diet | Seed Feeders | Nectar Feeders |
| Regions | Asia, Africa, Americas, Oceania | Australia, Oceania |
| Conservation | Not Evaluated | Least Concern |
Pink Bollworm
A small dark moth whose pink-tinged larvae bore into cotton bolls and damage the fibers and seeds. It has been one of the most economically important cotton pests globally.
Did You Know?
A massive sterile insect technique program successfully eradicated it from the southwestern United States by 2018.
Hawk Moth (Australian Privet Hawk Moth)
One of Australia's largest hawk moths, with a robust grey body and intricately patterned wings that provide superb camouflage on tree bark. The large green caterpillars have a distinctive tail horn.
Did You Know?
Hawk moth caterpillars rear up and vibrate their bodies when threatened, making them appear larger and more intimidating.