Diamondback Moth Parasitoid vs Skipper Butterfly

Side-by-side species comparison

Attribute Diamondback Moth Parasitoid Skipper Butterfly
Scientific Name Diadegma semiclausum Epargyreus clarus
Order Hymenoptera Lepidoptera
Family Ichneumonidae Hesperiidae
Size 4-6 mm 44-67 mm wingspan
Habitat Farmland Farmland
Diet Parasitoids Nectar Feeders
Regions Europe, Asia North America
Conservation Least Concern Least Concern

Diamondback Moth Parasitoid

A small ichneumon wasp that is the most important natural enemy of the diamondback moth, a major global brassica pest. Females parasitize caterpillars with a quick ovipositor strike.

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Did You Know?

So effective at controlling diamondback moth that pesticide-free brassica production depends on this species.

Skipper Butterfly

A stout-bodied butterfly with hooked antennae, brown wings with golden spots on the forewing, and a distinctive silver patch on the hindwing underside. It has a rapid, darting flight.

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Did You Know?

The caterpillar builds a silk-lined leaf shelter and can eject its droppings up to 150 centimeters away to avoid attracting parasitic wasps.