Pickleworm

Definition

The larva of Diaphania nitidalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), a tropical moth whose caterpillars are a major agricultural pest of cucurbits. Larvae tunnel into flowers, buds, and fruits of squash, cucumber, and melon, often rendering produce unmarketable; late-season plantings in temperate regions typically suffer greater damage than early crops due to the species' intolerance of cold temperatures.

Etymology

From the larva's association with pickled cucumber (cucumber) and its worm-like form.

Example

In southern Florida, pickleworm larvae burrow into summer squash fruits, leaving entry holes surrounded by frass and causing internal decay that makes the crop unsuitable for fresh market sale.

Synonyms

• Diaphania nitidalis (scientific name)

Related Terms

• cucurbit pest
• Crambidae
• bollworm
• fruit borer
• Integrated Pest Management
• thermal tolerance

Usage Notes

Strictly refers to the larval stage in agricultural contexts; adults are small, day-flying moths seldom noticed by growers. The common name is sometimes applied loosely to other cucurbit-feeding caterpillars, but specialists reserve it for D. nitidalis. Contrast with melonworm (Diaphania hyalinata), a congeneric pest with similar habits but distinct larval coloration (melonworm larvae are green with white stripes; pickleworm larvae are yellow-green with dark spots).