PEST

NAME
Emperor Gum Moth
Opodiphthera eucalypti

ORDER
Lepidoptera

FAMILY
Saturniidae

Description of the Pest
The adult moth is up to 150mm across the wingspan and is pinkish brown and has large eye-spots towards the edge of the wings.



The mature larva is up to 100mm long and is bright green with a yellow stripe on either side of its body. Each segment of the body has 6 fleshy, yellow or purple-blue and or red tubercule (protuberances) with several spiky yellowish hairs.
The larva has chewing mouth parts and the adult moth dose not feed.
The pupa is inside a fibrous spherical cocoon that is brown with a hard texture and is up to 25mm long and attached firmly to the host plant on the twigs or small branches.
This insect has a Holometabolouslife cycle, ie. When metamorphosisis observed during the pupalstage.


     Large antennae

Appearance and Distribution of the Pest
The larvae are seen hanging in the host plant and pupate during early summer. It is distributed in sub tropical to temperate climates along the east coast of Australia from Queensland to Tasmania and can be an interesting subject in the garden.

Period of Activity
The larvae are active from late winter to early summer.

Damage Caused
The larvae chew leaves leaving large sections missing or reduce the leaf to only the mid rib. Normally not affecting the plant, and only causing problems when large numbers of larvae infest the host.

Susceptible Plants
There are a wide range of host plants which include, Eucalyptus species, Lophostemon confertus, Schinus areira, Betula pendula, Liquidambar styraciflua and Pinus radiata

Cultural Control
The larvae can be removed by hand and transferred to another host plant or squashed under foot.

BiologicalControl
Birds commonly eat the larvae, which reduces the numbers significantly.

Chemical Control
Chemicals may be used but normally unwarranted as the damage is not significant.
Note
Always read the label for registration details and direction of use prior to application of any chemicals.