Brinjal
Hawk moth
Acherontia styx
Insect
In a Nutshell
- Defoliation of plants.
- External feeding and holes in leaves.
- Presence of caterpillars.
Can also be found in
Brinjal
Symptoms
Caterpillars feed on young leaves and growing shoots, creating visible holes and external damage on foliage. If you inspect the plant closely, you may see the green or brown caterpillars themselves.
Recommendations
Organic Control
To control hawk moth infestations, spraying Neem Seed Kernel Extract (NSKE) can be an effective method. NSKE is a natural pesticide derived from neem seeds and is known for its ability to deter various pests, including the hawk moth. As long as this is a minor pest you can hand-pick caterpillars from the leaves, which is effective in small areas.
Chemical Control
Since this is a minor pest, it's best to use environmentally friendly control methods along with preventive measures. If the population has already grown and chemical control is needed, using Quinalphos is recommended. When using pesticides or any chemical product, it is important to wear protective clothing and carefully read the label instructions. Regulations vary by country, so ensure you follow the specific guidelines for your area. This guarantees safety and increases the chances of successful application.
What caused it?
The damage is caused by the feeding of the moth’s caterpillars. The caterpillar is thick and sturdy with green bodies and angled stripes. They have a noticeable hook-shaped spike on their back. The adult giant hawk moth is brown with a special skull mark on its chest. It has violet and yellow stripes on its belly and its wings are dark brown and yellow with black lines.
Preventive Measures
- Ploughing helps expose the pupae to predators such as birds and dry them out, reducing their numbers.
- Light traps are also useful for monitoring the moth population.
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