PEST

NAME
Leaf-eating Ladybirds
Epilachna species

ORDER
Coleoptera

FAMILY
Coccinellidae

Description of the Pest
The adult is a 6mm oval-shaped, strongly convex, orange-shelled beetle with 26-28 black spots (also known as the 28-spot ladybird). Larvae are yellowish-green, with tiny black, branched spines. Both larvae and adults have chewing mouth parts. Adults and larvae are found on all above-ground parts of the host.

      Black Branched Spines
Appearance and Distribution of the Pest
Common throughout NSW, particularly along the coast, and in inland irrigation areas.

Life Cycle
These insects have a Holometabolouslife cycle, ie. When metamorphosisis observed during the pupalstage.
Eggs are deposited in clusters on the undersides of leaves. Larvae mature in 3 weeks and the life cycle takes about six weeks; adults may live for 10 months.

          

Period of Activity
Most active from Spring through early Autumn, particularly during periods of high humidity.

Damage Caused
Adults feed on the upper surfaces of leaves, from the margin inwards and the larvae feed on the underside. The combined feeding action of adults and young causes the leaves to skeletonise, giving the plant a burnt appearance. The skin of young fruit may also be attacked.

     

Susceptible Plants
Members of the Cucurbitaceaefamily (especially pumpkins, marrows and rockmelon), and some members of the Solanaceaefamily (eg tomatoes, potatoes) are susceptible to attacked.

Cultural Control
Small numbers may be removed by hand. Destroy heavily infested crops.

BiologicalControl
No effective controls are known but the predators such as birds, assassin bugs, soldier beetles and mantids help keep numbers down.

Chemical Control
Spraying with chemicals is not normally requires but applications of Maldison or Carbaryl are effective.
Note
Always read the label for registration details and direction of use prior to application of any chemicals.