Definition

1. Noun:
   • A type of insect: The "corn borer" is a moth (Ostrinia nubilalis) native to Europe. In America, its larvae are a significant agricultural pest, boring into the stems and crowns of corn (maize) and other plants.
   • The larval stage of the insect: Specifically refers to the caterpillar (larva) of the European corn borer moth, which is a serious pest of maize crops.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Farmers are concerned about the corn borer infestation this season.
  • The larvae, known as corn borers, tunnel into the cornstalks, weakening the plants.

Advanced Usage

• "European corn borer (ECB)": The full common name for the species .
  • Integrated pest management is crucial for controlling the European corn borer.

Variants and Related Words

• Corn borer moth (n): The adult, flying stage of the insect.
  • The corn borer moth lays its eggs on the leaves of host plants.

Synonyms

• Stem borer: A general term for insects whose larvae bore into plant stems.
• Maize borer: Another name emphasizing its primary host plant.

Noun

1. native to Europe; in America the larvae bore into the stem and crown of corn and other plants
2. larva of the European corn borer moth; a serious pest of maize