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CATERPILLARS
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| In initial infestations of lepidopterous larvae (caterpillars), newly hatched larvae feed on the superficial tissues of the lower leaf surfaces producing a "window" effect in the leaf surface. This is commonly seen with schefflera, hibiscus and Peperomia. |
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The saltmarsh caterpillar, Estigmene acrea
(Drury)
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| Older larvae begin to skeletonize leaf
tissue and finally consume entire leaves. As infestations can occur when adult
moths fly into greenhouses from outdoor areas, a high level of control can be
obtained by maintaining a well built structure that will not allow access of the
adults to your crop.
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| Often larval feeding will occur at night and no pests will be visible during the day. In such cases, fecal pellets or droppings, as seen in this and the previous slide, are often signs of a worm infestation. |
| More information on worms can be viewed at "Insect and Related Pests of Flowers and Foliage Plants". Click here to go there now! |
