Cabbageworm

Pronunciation: /KAB-uh-wurrm/

Category: Taxonomy

Singular: Cabbageworm

Plural: Cabbageworms

Definition

The common name for the larval stage of the insect *Pieris rapae*, a species of butterfly in the family Pieridae, known for its feeding damage on cruciferous crops.

Etymology

From the Old English 'cabbage' and 'worm', referring to its feeding habits.

Example

The cabbageworm is a major pest of cruciferous crops worldwide.

Related Terms

Crucifers
Pieridae
Lepidoptera
Pests

Usage Notes

The term 'cabbageworm' can be used generically to refer to any caterpillar that feeds on cabbage, but *Pieris rapae* is the most common species associated with this name.