Observations of the biotic factors affecting the populations of Epicerura pulverulenta Hampson (Lepidoptera: Notodontidae)

Abstract

Field and laboratory observations of Epicerura pulverulenta Hampson (Lepidoptera:Notodontidae) elucidated the role of biotic factors in the moth’s populations. Natural enemies recorded included Gryon and Telenomus spp (Hymenoptera:Scelionidae) which parasitized 33% of eggs studied. Also, about 4% of the larvae were parasitized by the dipterous tachinids Zygobothria atropivora Robineau-Desvoidy, Exorista xanthaspis Wiedeman, Blepharella sp., and P. quadrizonula (Thompson); and the perilampid Perilampus dubius (Walker), all solitary endoparasitoids. The predators included Belanogaster dubius Kohl. (Vespidae), Glypsus erubescens Dist. (Pentatomidae), Camponotus macuiatus F. (Formicidae) and a kite (bird). They accounted for 12% of larval mortality. In addition, 27% of the 4346 larvae studied developed mycosis caused by Paecilomyces farinosus (Dickson ex Fries) Browne and Smith. A nematode, Hexamermis sp. was also associated with the larvae killing 1.5% of them. High pupal mortality was observed, but the cause was unknown.