Ostrinia nubilalis
(Hübner, [1796])
European Corn Borer
Sort #: 1502 | P #: 800713 | MPG #: 4949 | PFG Page #: 164
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Larval feeding type: Stem and fruit borer
Larval substrate: Many herbaceous plants and crops, incl. Alcea rosea (Hollyhock), Apium graveolans (Celery), Beta (Beet), Humulus lupulus (Hop), Malus pumila (Apple), Panicum miliaceum (Millet), Phaseolus (Bean), Rheum rhaponticum (False Rhubarb), Rumex crispus (Curly Dock), Solanum tuberosum (Potato), Sorghum bicolor (Sorghum), Zea mays (Corn)
Phenology: Adult: 5/19 to 9/25 (82 records)
Comment: First found in North America in the Boston area during the summer of 1917, but had probably arrived a few years previously. Sexually dimorphic with the males smaller and darker than the females. The females can be distinguished from other similar Ostrinia species by the shape of the postmedial line near the dorsum.
Status in MA (automated assessment): Widespread, very common
Status in N. America: Introduced (Agricultural pest)
MA Endangered Species Act status: None
First Year Reported: 1917
Last Year Reported: 2025
Distribution by County: Berkshire, Hampshire, Franklin, Worcester, Middlesex, Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Bristol, Plymouth, Barnstable, Dukes, Nantucket
Number of Records: 101
