What are the larvae of some moths and beetles commonly referred to as?

The larvae of certain moths and beetles are commonly referred to as "borers." This term is used to describe the developmental stage of these insects that feed and often create tunnels or holes in plant material, including wood or stems. Borers can cause significant damage to trees, crops, and other plants by infesting them and compromising their structural integrity.

In contrast, the term "pupae" refers to the stage in an insect's life cycle that follows the larval stage and precedes the adult stage, during which the larva undergoes transformation. "Caterpillars" specifically describes the larvae of moths and butterflies, while "grubs" typically denotes the larvae of certain beetles, particularly those that are soft-bodied and found in soil. Understanding these distinctions helps in identifying and managing insect pests effectively within agricultural and horticultural practices.