European Corn Borer

Ostrinia nubilalis

Content coming soon for this insect guide.

Insect Profile

Beneficial Rating

-5 Pest

Active Months

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

US Distribution

NortheastSoutheastMidwest

Habitat Preferences

gardensagricultural fields

Taxonomic Group

Moth

Order

Lepidoptera

Family

Crambidae

Lifecycle

The European Corn Borer undergoes a complete metamorphosis with four distinct stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Adult moths emerge in late spring and early summer to lay egg masses on the undersides of leaves. The eggs, laid in clusters of 15-30, hatch in about a week. The larval stage, which is the destructive phase, consists of five to six instars and lasts for about 50 days. Larvae feed on leaves before boring into stalks and ears. The pupal stage occurs within the plant and lasts for approximately 12 days. Depending on the climate, there can be one to four generations per year.

Overwintering Strategy

The European Corn Borer overwinters as a full-grown larva within corn stalks and other plant debris left in the field.

Native Range

Europe

Attracted By

cornpeppersapplessoybeanscottonfoxtailspigweedsragweedssmartweeds

Repelled By

dillcoriandercilantrobuckwheat

Organic Control Methods

Organic control of the European Corn Borer involves a multi-faceted approach. Pheromone traps can be used to monitor and disrupt mating of adult moths. The release of Trichogramma wasps, which are natural parasites of the borer's eggs, is an effective biological control. Applications of Bacillus thuringiensis kurstaki (Btk) or Spinosad sprays can target the larval stage. Cultural practices are also crucial; this includes destroying crop residues and stalks after harvest to eliminate overwintering larvae, and maintaining weed-free fields to reduce alternative hosts.

Companion Planting

Intercropping with dill (Anethum graveolens), coriander or cilantro (Coriandrum sativum), and buckwheat (Fagopyrum esculentum) can help deter European Corn Borers. These plants can attract beneficial insects that prey on the borer's eggs and larvae.