Southern Beet Webworm Moth

Southern Beet Webworm Moth
Order: Lepidoptera
Family: Crambidae

▶Scientific name: Hymenia recurvalis (Fabricius)
▶Common name: Southern beet webworm moth
▶Body length: Adult ~ 5mm; wingspan 20-24mm
▶Host plants: Amaranth (Amaranthus tricolor), various leafy vegetables, 
                              and ornamental crops
▶Distribution: Korea, Japan, Taiwan, China, Australia, North America, 
                              and other regions

The adult moth measures about 15 mm in body length, with a wingspan of 20-24 mm. Its forewings are dark brown, marked with a thick transverse white band that serves as a key identifying feature. The hindwings also bear a distinctive white band across the middle. The head is white, with a small black marking toward the front.

Adults emerge more than twice per year and, unlike most moths, are primarily active during the daytime. Mature larvae reach 15 - 16 mm in length, and pupae are about 10 mm long. 

Hymenia recurvalis is a highly polyphagous species that attacks a wide variety
Of crops. Larvae feed irregularly on leaf tissue, leaving a characteristic net-like pattern of damage. They may also bore into flower corollas, causing additional injury. Because of their broad host range and strong feeding activity, they are considered an important pest of vegetable and ornamental crops.