Omnivorous Loopers – Sabulodes aegrotata – Sabulodes caberata

Omnivorous Loopers- Sabulodes aegrotata Common Name: Omnivorous Loopers Latin Name: Sabulodes aegrotata Appearance: The Omnivorous Looper has a wingspan of approximately 35-45 mm. The forewings are mottled brown with a distinct, curved line across them, while the hindwings are paler brown with a darker border.

• Egg:The eggs of the Omnivorous Looper are small and oval-shaped, usually laid singly on leaves.
• Pupae:This species’ pupae are brown and formed in silken cocoons.
• Larva:The larvae of the Omnivorous Looper are pale green with a darker green stripe down the center of their back. They can grow up to 35 mm long and have three pairs of legs on their thorax and four prolegs on their abdomen.
• Adults:The adults of the Omnivorous Looper are moths with mottled brown wings. The males have feathery antennae used to detect pheromones released by females.

Host plants: The Omnivorous Looper feeds on various host plants, including vegetables, fruit trees, ornamental plants, and weeds. Territory: The Omnivorous Looper is found throughout North and South America. Damages caused by Omnivorous Loopers: The larvae of the Omnivorous Looper can cause significant damage to crops and ornamental plants by feeding on leaves, buds, and fruit. They are capable of defoliating entire plants if populations are high. Life history and Habits: The Omnivorous Looper undergoes a complete metamorphosis, with four distinct life stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The eggs are usually laid singly on leaves, and the larvae emerge and begin feeding. The larvae are known for their looping movement, hence the name “Looper.” The larvae pupate in silken cocoons, and the adult moths emerge after approximately 2-3 weeks. The Omnivorous Looper can complete several generations yearly, and populations can quickly build up if left unchecked. Control measures include using insecticides and cultural practices such as pruning and removing infested plant material.