Mediterranean corn borer

Mediterranean corn borer

Sesamia nonagrioides

CROPS:

CORN

Description: The Mediterranean corn borer is a Lepidoptera with a 3.5-4 cm wingspan. It is one of the main species that attack corn in the Mediterranean area.

 

Number of annual generations: normally, 1-4 annual generations depending on the climatology.

 

Damage: the damage is caused by the larvae penetrating the canes and the cobs when feeding. This weakens the stem, thus reducing the plant’s vigour and decreasing the weight of the grains. Young plants may even die