tomato hornworm
Quick Summary
The tomato hornworm is the green larva of the North American hawk moth, Manduca quinquemaculata. These moths belong to the family Sphingidae and are known for their swift, hovering flight.12
The tomato hornworm is a significant pest, feeding on the leaves of plants in the nightshade family, particularly tomatoes and tobacco. These larvae are green and can grow up to 10 cm (4 inches) in length, often possessing a characteristic dorsal caudal horn. Their feeding can cause considerable damage to crops. Natural control methods include the use of braconid wasps, which parasitize the larvae. After feeding, the larvae pupate in the soil.12
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