Short pest overview:

The Pink bollworm (Pectinophora gossypiella) is a major pest of cotton crops worldwide, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. It primarily attacks cotton bolls, causing damage to fibers and seeds. The adult moth is small, with a wingspan of 12–20 mm, and grayish-brown forewings with faint markings.

Geographic Distribution:

Native to Asia, the Pink bollworm is now present in cotton-growing regions globally, including Africa, the Americas, and southern Europe. It is considered a quarantine pest in many countries.

Life Cycle:

The Pink bollworm typically has 4–6 generations per year, depending on the climate. Females lay eggs (up to 400) on cotton flowers or bolls. The eggs hatch in 3–6 days, and larvae penetrate the cotton bolls, feeding on seeds and causing damage over 10–14 days. The larvae then pupate in soil or plant debris for 7–14 days before emerging as adults. Overwintering occurs mainly as larvae within the bolls or soil.