CDFA Pest Prevention Plant Regulation Practice Exam

Pink bollworm overwinters as:

1. eggs

2. pupa

3. larva

4. adults

The correct answer is: larva

The pink bollworm (Pectinophora gossypiella) predominantly overwinters in its pupal stage, and this stage offers the insect a protective environment against harsh climatic conditions. During the pupal stage, the insect is encased in a cocoon and remains dormant until conditions become favorable for its emergence as an adult. This ability to survive through cold temperatures in the pupal form is crucial for the lifecycle of the pink bollworm, ensuring that when temperatures warm up in the spring, adults can emerge and continue the cycle of reproduction. This method of overwintering provides the pink bollworm with a survival strategy that allows it to re-emerge when environmental conditions favor the growth of its host plants, primarily cotton. Overwintering in other stages like eggs, larva, or adults would not provide the same level of protection from the elements or threats like predation and parasitism during the harshest weather conditions. By overwintering as a pupa, the pink bollworm ensures both its survival and the timing of its life cycle aligns with environmental factors that support its population growth.