About Rice Stem Borer
A small white moth whose larvae bore into rice stems, causing the devastating symptoms known as 'dead heart' in vegetative stage and 'white ear' in reproductive stage. It is one of the most serious pests of rice in Asia.
Did You Know?
A single larva can destroy an entire rice tiller by boring into the stem and feeding on internal tissue from the inside out.
How to Identify Rice Stem Borer
Rice Stem Borer (Scirpophaga incertulas) belongs to the order Lepidoptera, family Crambidae. Adults typically measure 20-25 mm wingspan.
Rice Stem Borer Habitat
Rice Stem Borer is found in wetlands habitats, particularly across South Asia (India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Pakistan). This species has adapted to thrive in its preferred environment, where it can find suitable food sources and shelter.
Rice Stem Borer Diet and Feeding
Rice Stem Borer feeds primarily on nectar from flowers. In doing so, it acts as an important pollinator, transferring pollen between plants and contributing to plant reproduction and biodiversity.
Where Is Rice Stem Borer Found?
Rice Stem Borer can be found in South Asia (India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Pakistan), where it inhabits wetlands environments. Its distribution is influenced by climate, food availability, and habitat suitability.
Distribution Map
Where Rice Stem Borer can be found
Is Rice Stem Borer Dangerous?
Rice Stem Borer 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.
Rice Stem Borer Role in Nature
Rice Stem Borer plays an important role as a pollinator. By visiting flowers to feed on nectar or pollen, it transfers pollen between plants, aiding in reproduction and helping to maintain plant diversity. Pollinators are essential for the production of many fruits, vegetables, and wildflowers.
Seasonal Activity
Frequently Asked Questions About Rice Stem Borer
What does Rice Stem Borer look like?
The Rice Stem Borer typically measures 20-25 mm wingspan.
Where is Rice Stem Borer found?
The Rice Stem Borer is found in South Asia (India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Pakistan) and typically inhabits wetlands environments.
What does Rice Stem Borer eat?
The Rice Stem Borer feeds primarily on nectar from flowers.
Is Rice Stem Borer dangerous to humans?
The Rice Stem Borer is generally harmless to humans. It does not bite or sting and poses no significant health risk.
What is an interesting fact about Rice Stem Borer?
A single larva can destroy an entire rice tiller by boring into the stem and feeding on internal tissue from the inside out.
Cite This Page
APA:
InsectDiscover. (2026). Rice Stem Borer (Scirpophaga incertulas). Retrieved from https://insectdiscover.com/insect/rice-stem-borer
MLA:
"Rice Stem Borer." InsectDiscover, https://insectdiscover.com/insect/rice-stem-borer.