There is no cheap method of controlling high populations of resistant tobacco budworm. 1 Tracer provides longer residual control than other currently labeled products, but multiple applications may be required against high or sustained infestations. 2 Pirate is available for use against resistant tobacco budworm under Section 18 Emergency Exemption. One of the most distinguishing characteristics of this moth is the triangle shape in which it holds its wings when resting. The wings are a creamy yellow to yellowish brown in color and are crossed by a couple of wavy brown lines.
ECB moths are smaller than a bollworm moths and slightly larger than beet armyworms.
ECB is primarily a pest of corn and sorghum, and these are the crops from which these moths are migrating. They will also attack cotton, but, because they are susceptible to many of the insecticides used in cotton, it is uncommon to find ECB larvae in cotton. They are usually controlled coincidentally by treatments targeting other pests. When they do occur, it is usually in fields that have not required treatment for an extended period of time. ECB is susceptible to Bt and therefore is not likely to be a problem in Bt-cotton.