Loopers

Loopers

Trichoplusia ni

Affected Plants:

Cabbage, lettuce, and other leafy greens

Damage Type:

Chewing

Physical Characteristics:

Green caterpillars, identified by characteristic ‘looping’ movement; thin white stripes down the body

Control Method:

BT (Bacillus thuringiensis), insecticides

Environmental Impact:

Moderate, especially on beneficial insects

Organic/Natural Control:

Handpicking, natural predators, BT (Bacillus thuringiensis)

About this pest

When discussing looper worms in South Africa, it’s important to clarify, that several species with looping gaits fall under this category. Knowing the specific looper you’re encountering will help provide a more accurate and relevant overview.

Here are some potential culprits and their characteristics:

1. Cabbage Looper (Trichoplusia ni):

  • Physical characteristics: Light green caterpillars with white lines running along the body, about 30mm long when fully grown.
  • Common South African names: Koolblaar wurm (Afrikaans), Cabbage worm.
  • Why a pest: Feeds on leaves of cabbages, broccoli, beans, lettuce, and other vegetables, causing significant damage.

2. Plusia Looper (Plusia acuta):

  • Physical characteristics: Pale green caterpillars with a white stripe on the side, reaching around 40mm long.
  • Common South African names: Tomato looper (Afrikaans: Tamatie wurm).
  • Why a pest: Attacks tomatoes, potatoes, bananas, and other vegetable and fruit crops, causing holes and blemishes on leaves and fruits.

3. Cycad Looper (Zerenopsis leopardina):

  • Physical characteristics: Brown to reddish-brown caterpillars with black spots and a twig-like appearance, up to 50mm long.
  • Common South African names: Cycad looper (Afrikaans: Sago wurm).
  • Why a pest: Feeds on cycad leaves, causing defoliation and potentially weakening the plant.

Why Looper Worms are Pests:

  • Leaf feeders: They chew on leaves and fruits, damaging crops and reducing yields.
  • Wide range of hosts: Different species target various vegetable, fruit, and ornamental plants.
  • Multiple generations: Some species reproduce throughout the year, leading to continuous damage potential.

Combatting Looper Worms:

Monitoring: Regularly inspect plants for signs of damage like chewed leaves, holes in fruits, and the presence of caterpillars.

Natural methods:

      • Encourage natural predators: Ladybugs, wasps, and birds can help control looper populations.
      • Neem oil spray: Disrupts larval feeding and development.
      • Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt): A bacterium targeting caterpillars, safe for other insects and humans.

Cultural practices:

      • Interplanting: Companion planting with certain herbs or flowers can repel looper moths.
      • Handpicking: Remove caterpillars manually if infestations are light.
      • Row covers: Protect young plants from egg-laying adults.

Chemical control: Use registered insecticides as a last resort due to environmental impact and potential harm to beneficial insects.

Remember:

  • Early detection and action are crucial to manage looper populations effectively.
  • Identify the specific looper species for targeted control measures.
  • Prioritize natural and organic methods whenever possible for a sustainable approach.

By understanding the different looper worms and their vulnerabilities, you can protect your South African plants from these looping intruders and ensure a bountiful harvest or thriving garden.

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EFEKTO ECO INSECT CONTROL

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