description Cabbage Looper Moth Overview
The cabbage looper moth (Trichoplusia ni) is a noctuid moth whose caterpillar gets its common name from its looping, inchworm-like movement. The larvae feed on many vegetable and field crops, including cabbage and other Brassica plants, lettuce, spinach, and related leafy crops, making the species an important agricultural pest. Adults can migrate over long distances, and the moth occurs across much of the world, with abundance shaped by climate and season.
help Cabbage Looper Moth FAQ
Why is it called the cabbage looper moth?
Its caterpillar moves with a looping, inchworm-like motion, which gives the species its common name. The adult moth is Trichoplusia ni, a member of the family Noctuidae.
What crops do cabbage looper caterpillars damage?
They feed on many vegetable and field crops, including cabbage and other Brassica plants, lettuce, and spinach. The larvae can be a concern wherever leafy crops are grown.
What is the scientific name of the cabbage looper moth?
The scientific name is Trichoplusia ni. It is a noctuid moth, and the damaging life stage is the caterpillar rather than the adult moth.
Does the cabbage looper eat only cabbage?
No. Despite its common name, the caterpillar also feeds on lettuce, spinach, other leafy crops, and a range of field plants. The name describes a familiar host crop, not the full diet.
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