Pacific Pests, Pathogens and Weeds

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Summary

• Widespread distribution. In tropical and temperate Asia, Oceania. An important pest.
• Eggs are laid on the leaves and petioles. Mature caterpillars eat between veins, sometimes all the leaf.
• Look for the horn and the large eye spots.
• Outbreaks uncommon because of natural enemies, and other control measure not needed.
• Natural enemies: parasitoid wasps.
• Cultural control: visit garden regularly; handpick caterpillars; allow chickens into the taro fields.
• Chemical control: not usually required. If needed, use PDPs: neem, pyrethrum, or chilli; use products from bacteria, e.g., spinosad or Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) on young caterpillars. Alternatively, use synthetic pyrethroids, but likely to kill natural enemies.