About 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.
Did You Know?
It has developed resistance to nearly every class of insecticide used against it, making it one of agriculture's toughest pests.
How to Identify Old World Bollworm
Old World Bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) belongs to the order Lepidoptera, family Noctuidae. Adults typically measure 35-40 mm wingspan.
Old World Bollworm Habitat
Old World Bollworm is found in farmland habitats, particularly across Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania, South America. This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Old World Bollworm Diet and Feeding
Old World Bollworm feeds on fruits. Fruit-feeding insects are attracted to ripe and decaying fruit, and some species can be significant agricultural pests.
Where Is Old World Bollworm Found?
Old World Bollworm can be found in Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania, South America, where it inhabits farmland environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Old World Bollworm can be found
Is Old World Bollworm Dangerous?
Old World Bollworm is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk. Like most insects, it prefers to avoid human contact and will typically flee rather than confront a perceived threat.
Old World Bollworm Role in Nature
Old World Bollworm is part of the food web as a primary consumer, feeding on plant material. It serves as an important food source for birds, bats, amphibians, and other insectivores, connecting plant energy to higher trophic levels.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Old World Bollworm
What does Old World Bollworm look like?
The Old World Bollworm typically measures 35-40 mm wingspan.
Where is Old World Bollworm found?
The Old World Bollworm is found in Europe, Africa, Asia, Oceania, South America and typically inhabits farmland environments.
What does Old World Bollworm eat?
The Old World Bollworm feeds on fruits.
Is Old World Bollworm dangerous to humans?
The Old World Bollworm is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
Is Old World Bollworm endangered?
The Old World Bollworm is currently classified as Not Evaluated by conservation assessments. Habitat loss and environmental changes are among the primary threats to its population.
What is an interesting fact about Old World Bollworm?
It has developed resistance to nearly every class of insecticide used against it, making it one of agriculture's toughest pests.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Old World Bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/old-world-bollworm
MLA:
"Old World Bollworm." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/old-world-bollworm.