Which pest is recognized as an occasional pest of corn?

The army worm is recognized as an occasional pest of corn due to its sporadic outbreaks and specific environmental conditions that can lead to increased populations. Although it can cause significant damage when present, it does not consistently affect corn crops like some other pests.

In the case of sweet corn, for instance, army worms may invade during particular growth stages, leading to feeding on the leaves and potentially damaging the ears. Their populations can fluctuate widely from year to year, making them an occasional rather than a constant threat to corn crops.

Other pests listed, such as the European corn borer, are considered more consistent threats, as they can repeatedly infest corn fields season after season. Similarly, the potato leaf hopper and the corn flea beetle have varied levels of impact but are not identified specifically as occasional pests of corn in the same way that army worms are noted for their sporadic presence.