Herpetogramma

Lederer, 1863

grass webworms, sod webworms

Species Guides

12

Herpetogramma is a of in the Crambidae, Spilomelinae, comprising approximately 106 distributed across North America, Eurasia, Australia, New Zealand, Central and South America. Larvae of most species are associated with grasses and related plants, with several species recognized as agricultural or turf pests. The genus was established by Julius Lederer in 1863.

Herpetogramma bipunctalis by (c) mfeaver, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by mfeaver. Used under a CC-BY license.Herpetogramma aquilonalis by no rights reserved, uploaded by Ben Keen. Used under a CC0 license.Herpetogramma aeglealis by (c) Nick Block, some rights reserved (CC BY), uploaded by Nick Block. Used under a CC-BY license.

Pronunciation

How to pronounce Herpetogramma: /hɛr.pɛ.toʊˈɡræmə/

These audio files are automatically generated. While they are not always 100% accurate, they are a good starting point.

Images

Distribution

North America, Eurasia, Australia, New Zealand, Central and South America. Specific distribution records include: Sweden (SE), Norway (NO), Vermont (USA).

Diet

Larvae of most feed on grasses (Poaceae). Specific documented associations include: blackberry (Rubus spp., Rosaceae), Solanum trilobatum (Solanaceae), Alternanthera philoxeroides (Amaranthaceae), and various warm-season turfgrasses.

Human Relevance

Several are recognized as agricultural or horticultural pests. Herpetogramma bipunctalis (southern beet webworm) damages blackberry leaves. Herpetogramma licarsisalis (grass webworm, tropical sod webworm) is a pest of turfgrasses and lawns. Herpetogramma basalis has been investigated as a agent for the weed Alternanthera philoxeroides in China.

Similar Taxa

  • SitochroaFormerly included Herpetogramma palealis, now Sitochroa palealis; similar grass-associated crambid
  • ZebroniaFormerly included Herpetogramma mahensis, now Zebronia mahensis; similar spilomeline crambids

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Sources and further reading