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Helicoverpa
Hardwick
Type
species: armigera Hubner.
This
genus was proposed and discussed by Hardwick (1965) to include a group of
species previously placed in Heliothis Ochsenheimer. Matthews (1988) has
confirmed the validity of the genus.
It
is defined by characteristics of the genitalia: the male aedeagus vesica is
coiled, with cornuti set in groups along its length, the female appendix bursae
is long, weakly spiralled, with a unique leathery texture. Hardwick also defined
the genus on possession of a specialised patch of flattened scales in deep
sockets on the femur of the male foreleg.
The
genus is found worldwide except at high latitudes, but, is perhaps most diverse
in the New World. Several species are serious pests. Both Bornean species are
widespread in the Old World tropics.
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