Cabbage webworm

Definition

A caterpillar pest of Brassicaceae crops that spins silken webs to fold leaves and feed within sheltered tunnels; primarily refers to Hellula undalis (Crambidae), a tropical to subtropical moth widespread from Europe through Asia to the Pacific, with the name also applied regionally to the related North American species Hellula rogatalis. Larvae skeletonize leaves, bore into heads, and contaminate produce, making this a significant economic pest of cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and related crops.

Etymology

From 'cabbage' for the principal host plant and 'webworm' for the larval habit of spinning protective silken webs.

Example

Hellula undalis larvae feed gregariously inside silk-lined leaf rolls on cabbage, with heavy infestations causing stunted growth and unmarketable heads; in the southeastern United States, Hellula rogatalis produces similar damage on collards and mustard greens.

Synonyms

• Old World webworm

Related Terms

• Crambidae
• webworm
• Hellula rogatalis
• Diamondback moth
• imported cabbageworm
• Brassicaceae
• leaf roller
• skeletonization

Usage Notes

The common name applies to two distinct species: H. undalis (pantropical, occasionally reaching Europe) and H. rogatalis (restricted to the Americas). Both are congeneric and share larval biology, but their distributions do not overlap. The name 'cabbage webworm' distinguishes these crambid larvae from the looper caterpillars (Noctuidae: Trichoplusia ni) and the pierid 'cabbageworm' (Pieris rapae), which lack web-spinning behavior. In integrated pest management, pheromone traps target adult moths while Bacillus thuringiensis and selective insecticides suppress larval populations.