About Striacosta albicosta Smith
The western bean cutworm, with the scientific name Striacosta albicosta Smith, is a moth species that belongs to the family Noctuidae. It is the only species that makes up the entire genus Striacosta. Originally, the species was endemic to the western regions of the United States. However, starting in 2000, it has spread eastward, reaching the states of Iowa, Minnesota, Illinois, Missouri, Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Ohio. This moth has a wingspan of approximately 40 millimeters. Adult moths fly between July and August, with the exact timing varying by location. The larvae feed on a broad range of plants, including beans and corn. On corn, this species is considered a pest.
