Old World Bollworm
Helicoverpa armigera
Photo by Gyorgy Csoka, Hungary Forest Research Institute, Bugwood.org
Survey Information
The Old World Bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) is a potential pest of many different plants. Its larvae bore into and feed on the fruit of a wide range of plant species. Hosts which occur in Wyoming include small grains, corn, potatoes, and pines. To date it has not been found in Wyoming or in the US, but in 2014 it was detected in Puerto Rico.
The Wyoming Old World Bollworm Survey is conducted by the Wyoming Pest Detection / CAPS Program. A plastic bucket trap with pheromone attractant is placed on or near the host plant from May until August. The traps are monitored for suspects and serviced once a month. If suspects are found they are sent to the University of Wyoming for further identification.
