Bionomics of Hyblaea puera (Lepidoptera: Hyblaeidae), a serious pest of teak (Tectona grandis) from Jammu (India)

Abstract :

Hyblaea puera (Lepidoptera: Hyblaeidae), commonly known as teak defoliator, is recognized as the most serious pest of teak (Tectona grandis) in the area under study. Outbreaks of this insect which feeds on young tender leaves occur during the early part of the growth season, soon after the trees have put forth the new flush of leaves. The observations were recorded on the biology of the pest in Jammu under laboratory conditions. The pre-mating period of both sexes of moth was one to three days after emergence. Mating occurred during night and lasts for about an hour. A characteristic courtship behavior was exhibited by the adult moths. Pre-oviposition period was 20- 24 hours and the mean oviposition period was 6 days. It was revealed that the incubation period varies from 1.5 to 3.05 days with an average of 2.51±0.648 days. The larvae passed through five instars and total larval period varies from 15.2 to 20.15 days with an average of 17.62±1.64 days. Pupal period ranges from 6.2 to 8.4 days with an average of 7.16±0.85 days. Total life cycle varied from 21.4 to 28.15 days with an average of 24.79±2.42 days. Pest completed 7 generations in a year from June to November


Keyword :

Biology, Hyblaea puera, Lepidoptera, Tectona grandis, Jammu, India


Author(s) : Sharma, S., Tara, J. S., Bhatia, S.
Downloads : 2184
Published Issue : 2013 Vol. 8 Number 1


2013 Vol. 8 Number 1