The Rose Semilooper, Achaea janata, belonging to the Family Noctuidae of the Order Lepidoptera, is a nocturnal insect pest that causes significant yield losses and reduces the quality of crops worldwide. It is a destructive pest because it reproduces quickly and can quickly establish large populations, making it difficult to control the pest. Apart from feeding, the larvae also produce large amounts of frass, which can lead to secondary infections by fungal pathogens.
Effective management strategies are essential to minimize the impact of this pest on Rose production. To effectively manage this pest, it is necessary to understand its life cycle, its preferred habitats, and the best methods for controlling it. This article will provide an overview and discussion of the Rose Semilooper Pest in Rose crops, including its symptoms, identification techniques, and control.
Rose Semilooper Pest Management
Life Cycle of Rose Semilooper Pest in Rose Crop
The life cycle of the Rose Semilooper pest has four stages. They are egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The lifecycle of the Rose Semilooper begins when the female lays eggs singly or in clusters on the underside of the leaves and takes about 3-5 days to hatch. The larvae are the most destructive stage of the pest’s lifecycle. They emerge from the eggs and start feeding on the rose plants’ leaves, buds, and flowers. The larval stage lasts about 2-3 weeks when the larvae undergo several molts.
After completing the feeding phase, the larvae pupate. They attach themselves to the host plant or any nearby surface using silk threads and transform into a brownish pupa. The pupal stage lasts for about 7-10 days. The adult emerges from the pupa as a moth. The adult moths are nocturnal and are active during the night. They feed on nectar and mate during this stage. The adult moth stage lasts for about 1-2 weeks. The entire lifecycle can be completed in 4-5 weeks, depending on the temperature and other environmental factors.
Occurrence of Rose Semilooper Pest in Rose Crop
- Location of Rose Semilooper Pest: This pest infests Rose crops in India, Africa, Sri Lanka, China, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, the United States, Mexico, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, the Philippines, and Australia.
- Host Range: The Rose Semilooper pest infects crops like Rose, Castor, Cotton, Cabbage, Cauliflower, Tomato, Soybean, and Okra.
Factors Favoring the Population Increase of Rose Semilooper Pest in Rose Crop
- Temperature – The pest thrives in warm and humid environments, with optimal growth between 20 to 30°C. Higher temperatures above 35°C can be lethal for the pest, while lower temperatures below 10°C can slow its growth.
- Moisture – High humidity levels above 60% can create favorable conditions for the pest to thrive. Rainfall or excessive watering of plants can also contribute to it.
- Soil Conditions – High soil fertility and moisture can promote pest growth.
- Improper Cultural Practices – Poor sanitation, inadequate crop rotation, and improper use of fertilizers and pesticides can create favorable conditions for the pest.
Identification of Rose Semilooper Pest in Rose Crop
- Egg: The eggs are small, spherical, and white.
- Larva: The larvae have a distinct appearance with a bright green body, a black head, and several white stripes on the body. They have four pairs of abdominal prolegs and a pair of true legs at the head.
- Adult: The adult has a wingspan of about 35-45 mm, with brownish-gray wings and two distinct white spots on