PEST
 
   NAME
     Orange Palm Dart
     Cephrenes augiades sperthias
 
   ORDER
     Lepidoptera
 
   FAMILY
     Hesperiidae

Description of the Pest
The adult is a small butterfly with orange and brown patterns on wings 30mm across. Larvae have a pale greenish-cream body, with a hard brown striped head; larvae have chewing mouthparts.

Appearance and Distribution of the Pest
Palmdarts occur in tropical to warm temperate zones, along the north and east coasts of Australia. Two common species are the yellow palmdart (C. trichopepla), found north of the Tropic of Capricorn; and the orange palmdart (C. augiades), found along the east coast as far south as Wollongong.

Life Cycle
This insect has a Holometabolous life cycle, ie. When metamorphosis is observed during the pupal stage.

Period of Activity
Most active from Spring through Autumn although, in tropical areas, they may be active throughout the year.

Damage Caused
Palmdarts are a significant pest to palms. Caterpillars strip the leaves of the palms to the midrib, giving the leaves a damaged appearance. During the day, palmdarts roll the palm frond into a tube, secured by silk, in which they hide.

Susceptible Plants
Palms are susceptible, especially Archontophoenix species.

Cultural Control
Unroll the fronds and remove the larvae where possible.

Biological Control
Parasites and birds may reduce numbers.

Chemical Control
Smaller plants may be sprayed with contact insecticides with a wetting agent.
Note
Always read the label for registration details and direction of use prior to application of any chemicals.