Helicoverpa zea
Major pest of corn, tomatoes, and many other crops. Also known as tomato fruitworm and cotton bollworm. Larvae feed on developing ears and fruits.
Larvae vary from green to brown to pink with light stripes, up to 2 inches. Adults are tan moths with dark spots on wings. Eggs are tiny, dome-shaped, laid on silks or near fruit.
Chewed corn kernels at ear tips. Entry holes in tomatoes near stem. Damaged peppers and beans. Frass in feeding areas. Secondary rot infections.
Multiple generations per year. Cannot overwinter in cold climates - migrates north annually. Eggs hatch in 3-5 days, larvae feed 2-4 weeks, pupate in soil.
Plant corn varieties with tight husks. Time planting to avoid peak moth flights. Remove and destroy infested ears. Encourage natural predators.