The Bugwood Network

Corn Earworm and Tobacco Budworm - Larval Identification

Corn earworm and tobacco budworm larvae are similar in appearance.  Differentiation of the two species is possible, with a hand lens, as larvae approach 1/2 inch in length.

Close examination of the larvas mouthpart is one way to distinquish the two species.  The chewing part or mandibles can be seen above. The mandibles can be removed as shown below.  Upon closer examination the presence or absence of a mandibular process or retinaculum can be determined.  A hand lens or dissecting microscope will be need for this process.

Corn Earworm

Retinaculum absent; corn earworm.

Tobacco Budworm

Retinaculum present; tobacco budworm.

Adults or moths are more easily distiquished when scouting fields. The species ratio of adults in a field may be a clue to larval makeup as well.
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