Host range of the nettle caterpillar Darna pallivitta (Moore) (Lepidoptera: Limacodidae) in Hawai'i.

Abstract

This chapter describes the life cycle, control (using chemical, biological and heat treatments), and host range (based on field observations and no-choice host range tests) of the Nettle Caterpillar Darna pallivitta. Confirming host plant species and preferred food sources of D. pallivitta will enable entomologists and plant quarantine regulators to monitor and regulate movement of these plants to prevent the spread of D. pallivitta.

Commodity risk assessment of Momordica charantia fruits from Honduras

“…Martins (2018) noticed a 30-50% reduction in lesions caused by F. brevicaulis in Brazil, and according to de L opez et al (2020) bagging alone of bananas reduced losses by 90-100% by the red rust thrips (Chaetanaphothrips signipennis) compared to bunches with no bags. In banana plantings, covering bunches with polyethylene bags during fruit development provides a physical barrier to insect infestations, but bags cannot fully protect the fruit when a thrips infestation is heavy (Hara et al, 2002). No records have been found in literature on the effect of preharvest fruit bagging of M. charantia fruits.…”

<em>Aroplectrus dimerus</em> (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae), Ectoparasitoid of the Nettle Caterpillar, Darna pallivitta (Lepidoptera: Limacodidae): Evaluation in the Hawaiian Islands

“…The moth was suspected of having entered the state on infested palm seedlings imported from Taiwan [2]. Immediately after its detection, an eradication attempt with pesticides was made but proved unsuccessful [3]. In January 2002, surveys showed its establishment on three surrounding farms where the larvae were found feeding on coconut palm, Cocos nucifera L., areca palm, Chrysalidocarpus lutescens Wendl, rhapis palm, Hawaiian ti, Cordyline terminalis Kunth, and Dracaena sp.…”

“…Host plants were studied to include native plants also at risk [2,4]. Agricultural crops damaged by D. pallivitta include coffee, Coffea arabica L. (Rubiaceae), and macadamia, Macadamia integrifolia Maiden & Betche (Proteaceae) [3,5].…”

“…Damage to ornamental plants, including the many palm species grown in Hawaii, could result in economic losses to the nursery industry and homeowners. Horticulture and nursery products impacted by the limacodid pest are estimated at $84.3 million (National Agricultural Statistics Service 2018 value), [3]. Also potentially threatened by larval feeding are the endemic plant species [2,3].…”

“…Horticulture and nursery products impacted by the limacodid pest are estimated at $84.3 million (National Agricultural Statistics Service 2018 value), [3]. Also potentially threatened by larval feeding are the endemic plant species [2,3]. Of medical importance are the stinging spines of the larva, which cause dermatitis (itching, burning, welts, and blisters) on contact with the skin.…”