Photo By gailhampshire , used under CC-BY-2.0 /Cropped and compressed from original
Beet armyworm
Spodoptera exigua
A species of Armyworms, Also known as Asparagus fern caterpillar, Beet armyworm moth, Pigweed caterpillar, Lucerne army worm, Lesser army worm, Inch worm
The beet armyworm is one of the most notorious pest insects. The larvae are voracious eaters and affect a wide range of crops including asparagus, tomatoes, lettuce, cannabis, cereals, and more. The lifespan of the adult moth is about 10 days.
General Info About Beet armyworm
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Attributes of Beet armyworm
Colors
Brown
Habitat
crop; grass field; forest
Adult Food Sources
Flower nectar, honeydew, aphid secretions
Larva Food Source
Leaves of beans, alfalfa, cotton, sugar beets, tobacco
Biting/stinging
Not reported
Allergy-causing
Not reported
Defensive attack
Not reported
Venomous
Not reported
Non-poisonous
The Beet armyworm is non-toxic and generally doesn't pose a risk to human health. No need for excessive worry.
Borer
The Beet armyworm can bore into the wood and may damage its structure, or even harm the health of trees. Stay alert if you frequently observe it in your house.
Biting animal or pet
Not reported
Mouthparts Type
Siphoning mouthparts
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Species Status of Beet armyworm
It is native to Asia, but has been introduced worldwide and is now found almost anywhere its many host crops are grown.
Adult Size of Beet armyworm
2.5 - 3 cm
Predators of Beet armyworm Larvae
Birds, ants, wasps, spiders, predaceous beetles
Predators of Adult Beet armyworm
Bats, birds, spiders
Interesting Facts About Beet armyworm
Beet armyworm can navigate under cover of darkness using the earth's magnetic field, much like nocturnal flying compasses.
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Youth Habitat of Beet armyworm
Agricultural and Cultivated Areas, Grasslands and Prairies, Forests and Woodlands
Habitat Preferences of Beet armyworm Through Different Life Stages
The eggs of beet armyworm can typically be found on the underside of leaves in areas with host plants, while the caterpillars — the larval stage — are often located on leaves and stems of various crops and weeds, consuming vegetation voraciously. Pupae are generally buried in the soil or in leaf litter close to the host plants. To search for these stages, inspect the host plants carefully for eggs under leaves, search for caterpillars on the plants, and dig gently into the soil at the base of plants to locate pupae.
When is the Best Time to Observe Beet armyworm
Night time, as beet armyworm are nocturnal and are most active during this period.
What is the Best Weather to Observe Beet armyworm
Warm, humid conditions that support the life cycle and activity of beet armyworm.
How and Where Can You Find Beet armyworm at Different Life Stages
Egg Eggs of beet armyworm are laid in clusters on the underside of host plant leaves. To find them, inspect these areas, especially on favored crops, using a magnifying lens to spot the minute eggs.
Larva Larvae of beet armyworm feed on foliage, so look for visible signs of feeding damage on crops and nearby plants. They can be found on the underside of leaves or within the crop canopy, during dawn or dusk when they're most active.
Pupal Pupation typically occurs in the soil. To find beet armyworm in this stage, gently sift through the top layers of soil, particularly around the base of plants where larvae are known to feed.
Adult Adult beet armyworm are attracted to light traps. Set up light sources in fields after dusk to attract and capture them, or perform night-time searches with a flashlight to locate them on or near host plants.
Are Beet armyworm harmful?
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Harmful Effects of Beet armyworm
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Agricultural Pests
Larvae of beet armyworm can cause mild to severe damage, primarily by chewing on leaves and sometimes fruits. A small number may cause defoliation, while a large infestation can lead to significant crop loss, affecting both yield and quality. The impact on humans includes reduced agricultural productivity and potential economic loss.
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Pollinator
Pollinator
Prefer Plant Type
Fruit trees, cabbage
Attract Plant Feature
Color, Smell
Beet armyworm visits various flowering plants but shows a preference for fruit trees and cabbage. They are attracted by the vivid color and enticing smell of flowers. Unlike hoverflies, beet armyworm collect pollen to sustain their offspring rather than feeding larvae directly.
Common Questions People Also Ask
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