Taiwan Tussock Moth

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Soybean Insect Pests

Taiwan Tussock Moth
Porthesia taiwana

Found in Taiwan

Damage symptoms

Leaves are damaged either at the center or towards the edges (or both areas). Often flowers show signs of feeding damage. There may be a resultant decrease in yield.

Insect characteristics

Larvae are attractive and easily seen. Their heads are brown and their bodies are yellow with distinct black bumps. There is a broad yellow stripe with a thin red line in the center that runs down the middle of their backs. Tufts of long hair arise from their bodies. Avoid handling these insects. The hairs have glands which produce an extremely irritating chemical.

Damage

Where to look

Inspect the leaves and look for signs of chewing damage. If the leaves or flowers appear defoliated, caterpillars may be in the vicinity. Pupae may also be in cocoons on the leaf or stem section of the plant.

Technical information

These pests feed on a wide variety of plants including fruits and vegetables. In tropical regions, there may be eight to nine generations per year. During warm seasons, the life cycle is complete in about a month. Young caterpillars prefer to feed on the center of the leaf. Later they feed on the edges. Adult moths, which are active at night, lay between 20-80 eggs each.

Control

To be added later.

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. Pesticides and other control recommendations should be adapted for local conditions.

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