CDFA Pest Prevention Plant Regulation Practice Exam

The southern cornstalk borer belongs to the order of:

1. homoptera

2. lepidoptera

3. hymenoptera

4. coleoptera

The correct answer is: lepidoptera

The southern cornstalk borer is classified within the order Lepidoptera, which is known for including moths and butterflies. This order is characterized by insects that typically have two pairs of wings covered with scales and undergo complete metamorphosis, which includes the life stages of egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa, and adult. In the case of the southern cornstalk borer, it is important to note that this insect is a significant pest of corn, particularly in the larval stage when it bores into corn stalks, causing damage to the plants. The unique features of Lepidoptera, including the morphological characteristics and life cycle stages, provide a clear identification as to why this insect belongs in this order. The other options represent different insect orders with distinct characteristics; for instance, Homoptera (now often grouped under Hemiptera) includes aphids and cicadas, Hymenoptera contains bees and ants, and Coleoptera refers to beetles. Each of these groups has different ecological roles and physiological traits that separate them from Lepidoptera, making the identification of the southern cornstalk borer as part of the Lepidoptera order accurate and significant for pest management and agricultural