Spoladea recurvalis (Fabricius, 1775) Also, known as,
The Beet Webworm moth or Hawaiian beet worm moth.
Family: Crambidae. (The Grass moth family)
Wingspan: 22 to 24mm
Flight Season: May to September. (depending location)
A widespread species, found worldwide in warmer climates, especially in tropical countries; very scarce in Europe, further north than France.
The larvae (caterpillars) feed on a wide variety of plants, including fruit and vegetable plants, such as maize, soybean, beet, spinach and cotton; because of this, this moth is considered as a serious pest in most countries, where these crops are grown commercially.
The pupa period lasts for about 12 days, concealed in a folded leaf, forming a cocoon.
The caterpillars when fully grown, are about 19mm in length. They feed on the underside of leaves, within a light constructed web, giving some protection from, predators and weather extremities.