Melonworm on Cucurbit Crops
Return to Insect Pests
Melonworm (Diaphania hyalinata) is an uncommon late-season pest of cucurbits. The 1-inch larva is yellow-green and will have fine yellow stripes running down its back in its last instar. The melonworm feeds on the foliage of summer and winter squashes but also may feed on muskmelon rinds. Some growers refer to these insects as rindworms.
Melonworm larva.
(Photo: Ric Bessin, University of Kentucky)
Management:
- Treat with foliar insecticides if feeding on rinds is observed.
