Integrated Pest Management Glossary

A group of moth caterpillars that feed on the foliage of plants in the cabbage family, creating large holes and causing severe damage.

The mouthparts of spider mites, which are adapted for piercing plant tissues and sucking out fluids.

The application of synthetic or natural chemicals to kill or repel pests, such as insecticides, herbicides, or fungicides.

A counting method that involves extracting insects from plant samples using chemical solutions, which are then counted under a microscope.

The introduction of exotic natural enemies to control pest populations.

Complete metamorphosis is a type of insect development that involves four distinct stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. In this type of metamorphosis, the larval stage is very different from the adult stage in terms of physical appearance, behavior, and habitat. Larvae are usually worm-like and often feed heavily to grow in size. They later enter the pupal stage where they undergo a dramatic transformation before emerging as fully-formed adults.

The management of existing populations of natural enemies to maintain their effectiveness in controlling pest populations.

A group of moths whose larvae feed on the kernels of developing corn ears, causing significant yield loss.

The manipulation of environmental factors, such as crop rotation, irrigation, sanitation, or mulching, to make the conditions less favorable for pests.

A group of moth caterpillars whose larvae feed on the stems and leaves of young plants, often cutting them down at the base.