BIOLOGY OF TARO HORNWORM, Hippotion celerio L.

Abstract

The biology of taro hornworm, Hippotion celerio L., was studied in the laboratory. The eggs were laid singly or in groups on the nether surface of the leaf. Incubation period of eggs was from 3 to 5 days with 97% hatchability. The total developmental period ranged from 29 to 35 days for females and 28 to 35 days for males. It did not differ markedly between the two sexes, but adult longevity was longer in females than in males. Five larval instars were recorded. A male to female ratio of 1.00:1.31 was observed. Of the 6 alternate hosts tested, 4 species were preferred and two species were eaten only under stress of hunger. A hymenopterous parasite, Trichogramma sp., was found infesting the eggs of taro hornworms in the field.