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AVRDC International
Cooperators'
Fact Sheet |
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Pepper Insect
Pests Tomato Fruitworm Helicoverpa armigera Found worldwide |
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Damage symptoms A small darkened partially healed hole at the base of the fruit pedicel is evident. The inside of the fruit has a cavity that contains frass and decay. Damaged fruits ripen early, but these are not usually marketable. Insect characteristics Chewing mouthparts. The young, small caterpillars have prominent rows of dark bumps (tubercles) on their backs. The older, larger ones vary in color from dark gray to light brown and have lengthwise stripes on their bodies. Adult moths are usually active at night. Where to look Look at the base of the fruit pedicel. If you find a darkened hole, remove the fruit and cut it open. Inside you will see tunneling caused by the insect. This cavity may contain frass and decay. Often the caterpillar is present. |
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Technical information In warm areas, several generations may occur. Caterpillars often move from one fruit to the next destroying only small portions of each fruit. Pupation occurs in soil near the base of the plant. Adults are extremely fecund; they are active during the day but more commonly at dust. Eggs are laid on the pepper plant. These insects are pests of other crops in the solanaceous family, for example, tomato. They also commonly feed on maize. Control To be added. |
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Last updated: 2001. Information from: Field Guide: Insect Pests of Selected Vegetables in Tropical and Subtropical Asia. 1995. B.L. Parker, N.S. Talekar and M. Skinner. Publication 94-427. Pest control recommendations added. |
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