Bollworm

Adult bollworm moths have a wingspan of 25.5 to 38.5 mm. The forewings of the bollworm are usually light yellowish-olive with a dark spot near the center. The hind wings are white with a broad, dark brown or brownish-gray border along the outer wing. The hairs of the head and thorax are the same color as the forewings, the abdomen is somewhat paler. Eggs are small, dome-shaped, and white when first deposited, but develop reddish-brown bands before hatching. Larvae are moderately hairy and may be cream-colored, pale green, rose, or brown. As they mature, they develop pale longitudinal stripes and scattered black spots. The pupae are about 31.5 mm long and 6 mm wide. Initially a shiny reddish-brown, they become dark brown near the time of adult emergence.

They are found throughout most of the Western Hemisphere and the most common are the pink bollworm and cotton bollworm. They not only feed superficially but also burrow into young cotton bolls and squares, often hollowing them and facilitating the introduction of pathogens.

Each of these larvae is capable of destroying several fruiting forms; therefore, low populations can cause economic damage. In North Carolina bollworms overwinter as pupae in the soil at a depth of 5 to 10 cm (2 to 4 inches). Adult moths emerge from late April to mid-May to mate and lay eggs.

For control products and more information please see our Caterpillars and Moths Control page.