The Life History of Platynota flavedana, A Leaf Roller of Strawberry12

Abstract

The larvae of a tortricid, Platynota flavedana Clemens, were found infesting strawberry on Long Island, New York. Larval feeding of leaves and occasionally of fruit affected the production of marketable berries in some plantings. The procedures and methods utilized in the life-history studies of this insect are described and the habits of the various stages are discussed. Moths mated and females oviposited readily when confined in 95×25-mm vials. The average number of eggs deposited per fertilized female was 283.7 in an average of 5.4 egg masses. The duration of the various stages was: incubation stage 7-9 days, larval stage 19-30 days, pupal stage 7-10 days adult male 4-27 days, adult female 5-36 days. Larvae passed through 5 instars before pupating; occasionally a 6th instar was observed. Seven parasites were reared from this species. Goniozus platynotae Ashmead occurred in greatest numbers. Diseased larvae also were noted. Measurements of the maximum, minimum, and average sizes of the stages encountered are presented, with descriptions of these stages. Eggs averaged 0.70×1.02 mm. Mature larvae ranged from 14 to 17 mm long. Male pupae averaged 9.1 mm and female pupae 9.3 mm long. The wing expanse of adults ranged from 10 to 20 mm, the female usually being larger than the male.