Purple-Back Cabbageworm – Evergestis pallidata

Purple-Backed Cabbageworm (Evergestis pallidata) Common Name: Purple-Backed Cabbageworm Latin Name: Evergestis pallidata Appearance: The caterpillar of the Purple-Backed Cabbageworm has a greenish-yellow body with a unique purple stripe down its back, while the adult moth has wings with a wingspan of around 1 to 1.5 inches (2.5 to 3.8 cm). The adult’s coloring is brown with minor patterns. Host Plants: The Purple-Backed Cabbageworm generally feeds on cruciferous plants, such as various cabbage and broccoli varieties, as well as other cruciferous vegetables. Territory : This species is native to North America, where it may be a nuisance in vegetable gardens and agricultural areas. Damages caused by Purple-Backed Cabbageworm: The Purple-Backed Cabbageworm is considered a nuisance owing to its eating habits. The larvae injure the plants by feeding on the leaves and crowns of cruciferous vegetables. Infestations can affect agricultural production and influence the general health of the host plants. Life History and Habits:

• Eggs:Female moths lay eggs on the leaves of host plants during the growing season.
• Larva:After hatching from the eggs, the caterpillars begin munching on the leaves. Their striking purple stripe along the back distinguishes them.
• Pupa:When the caterpillar is fully grown, it pupates in a cocoon, typically formed on the host plant or nearby structures.
• Adult Moth:After pupation, the adult Purple-Backed Cabbageworm moth emerges from the cocoon. The adult stage is relatively short-lived, and its primary purpose is reproduction.