Distribution and mortality of corn earworm (Helicoverpa armigera, Lepidoptera, Noctuidae) on maize plants in Krasnodar Territory

The three-year periodic surveys of maize fields in Krasnodar Territory showed the upper side of the leaf blades to be the most attractive place for Helicoverpa armigera Hbn. oviposition during the vegetative phase. After flowering, the downy part of leaf sheaths and stalks became more preferable for egg laying (43–50%). Egg mortality varied from 23 to 55%, both its level and the factors responsible for it depending on the insect generation. The probability of egg death also depended on its location on the host plants. An express examination of maize plants (omitting the leaves) may result in biased estimates of the density and mortality of corn earworm eggs.