Turmeric
Castor Seed and Capsule Borer
Dichocrocis punctiferalis
Insect
In a Nutshell
- Caterpillars bore into shoot and seed capsules.
- Webbing of capsules.
Turmeric
Symptoms
The larvae damage shoots and capsules by boring into them, often webbing capsules together. They create silk-lined tunnels with frass inside. Sometimes, they are found where the leaf joins the stem or rarely in the middle of thick leaves. Signs of damage include frass on damaged shoots and webbed capsules.
Recommendations
Organic Control
Plant trap crops to divert borer away from the main crops. Introduce natural enemies.
Chemical Control
Always consider an integrated approach with preventive measures together with biological treatments if available. It is difficult to control the larvae with chemical treatments because they can bore into fruits. When spraying is taken up, it should be commenced from the time of formation of inflorescence and again after 20 days.
What caused it?
Damage is caused by the larva, which bores into stems, shoots, buds, fruits, and seeds. This damage can lead to infections. Females lay small, oval, light yellow eggs on or near fruits or seeds. After 6-7 days, the eggs turn dark brown. The adult is medium-sized with pale yellow wings and small black dots. The larvae feed on seeds, capsules, and young shoots. Fully grown larvae are 24 mm long, pale green with a pink tint, fine hairs, a dark head, and a shield. They pupate in the stem or capsule.
Preventive Measures
- Collect and destroy infested shoots and their capsules.
- Maintain sanitary practices.
- Practice early planting.
- Destroy alternate hosts.
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