Crucifer-specialist
Guides
Delia radicum
cabbage root fly, cabbage maggot, spring cabbage fly, smaller cabbage fly
Delia radicum is a significant agricultural pest fly in the family Anthomyiidae, commonly known as the cabbage root fly or cabbage maggot. The larval stage causes damage by tunneling into roots and lower stems of cruciferous crops, while adults are small, grayish flies that emerge in spring. The species has a Holarctic distribution, occurring across Europe, North Africa, Asia, and North America. Research has documented complex interactions with microbial symbionts including Wolbachia and gut microbiota, which influence host fitness and plant-insect chemical ecology.
Hellula phidilealis
Cabbage Budworm Moth
Hellula phidilealis is a small crambid moth, commonly known as the cabbage budworm moth, whose larvae are specialized pests of cruciferous crops. The species occurs throughout tropical and subtropical regions of the Americas, from the southern United States through the Caribbean and Central America to northern South America. Its association with Brassica crops makes it economically significant in agricultural systems.
Microtheca
leaf beetles
Microtheca is a genus of leaf beetles in the family Chrysomelidae, subfamily Chrysomelinae. The genus contains several economically important agricultural pests, particularly of Brassicaceae crops. The most extensively studied species include M. ochroloma (yellowmargined leaf beetle) and M. punctigera, both of which are oligophagous specialists on cruciferous plants. These beetles are native to the Neotropics but have become significant pests in organic agriculture systems where synthetic insecticides are restricted.
Plutella xylostella
diamondback moth, cabbage moth
Plutella xylostella is a globally distributed moth species and one of the most economically significant agricultural pests worldwide. The small grayish-brown moth derives its common name from the cream-colored band that forms a diamond pattern along its back. Its larvae feed exclusively on cruciferous plants, causing extensive damage to cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, canola, and other Brassica crops. The species has evolved resistance to nearly every class of insecticide, including Bacillus thuringiensis toxins, making it exceptionally difficult to control. Annual global management costs are estimated at $4–5 billion.