Corn Borer

European corn borer, Ostrinia nubilalis, and southwestern corn borer, Diatraea grandiosella.

European Corn Borer

ECB damage.

Damage of european corn borer.

ECB mass

European corn borer egg mass.

ECB larva

Larva of european corn borer.

Southwestern Corn Borer

SW corn borer eggs Southwestern corn borer eggs.

SW corn borer larva. Southwestern corn borer larva.

SW corn borer adult.

Adult southwestern corn borer.

Resistant Hybrids

Most corn grown in Kansas now contains a gene that expresses a Bt toxin that makes it resistant to corn borer feeding; these should be preferred for planting in regions with historical losses to corn borers. Bt corn hybrids were released commercially for the first time in 1996. There are now many 'stacked' hybrids that express multiple genes targeting both corn borers and rootworms. Refuge plantings of a susceptible hybrid are still required to accompany all of these Bt hybrids, and growers should check the specific requirements for each hybrid. Conventional management is still recommended in refuge plots. To get the latest information, it is best to consult with your local seed dealer.

Please consult the most recent Corn Insect Management Guide for more information on corn borer management.

Page last updated 3/28/2024 by J.P. Michaud.