Abstract
The objective of this study was to identify Lepidoptera stinging larvae found in plots with horticultural crops in Cerro Punta, Chiriquí, Panama and to confirm the possible symptoms caused by erucism and lepidopterism. About 16 random samplings were carried out during 14 and a half months, in plots with crops, surrounding vegetation and infrastructure. Photographs were taken and samples were collected for processing in the laboratory. Specialized literature was consulted for identification. A survey of 33 people affected by erucism or lepidopterism was carried out. According to the results, the larvae found on the crops corresponded to Leucanella hosmera (Schaus, 1941) (Saturniidae), Halysidota tessellaris (Smith, 1797) (Erebidae), Acharia stimulea (Clemens, 1860) (Limacodidae) and an adult specimen of Megalopyge opercularis (Smith, 1797) (Megalopygidae) was also found on a wall. In wild vegetation, L. hosmera and possibly Automeris pallidior Draudt, 1929 (Saturniidae) larvae were found feeding on Faramea occidentalis (L.) A. Rich (Rubiaceae). The survey reflected burning, pain and inflammation as frequent symptoms due to erucism or lepidopterism in 93.9%, requiring medical attention in 18.18% of cases. In conclusion, five species of stinging larvae associated with horticultural crops were identified in Cerro Punta, which represent a potential health risk.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
