PEST

NAME
Oleander Butterfly
Euploea core corinna

ORDER
Lepidoptera

FAMILY
Nymphalidae


Description of the Pest
The larvae are fleshy, 50mm long black caterpillars with narrow white and orange stripes, and a pair of longitudinal white strips on each side of the body, above the legs. They have three pairs of widely-spaced horns near the head, and a terminal pair at the hind end of the body. Adults are black butterflies with a 75mm wingspan, and white spotted patterns on the wings and body. Also known as the Australian Crow Butterfly.

     

Appearance and Distribution of the Pest
This insect is found on the north and east coast of Australia and is distributed by flying to a new host.

     

Life Cycle
This insect has a Holometabolouslife cycle, ie. When metamorphosisis observed during the pupalstage.
Larvae pupate in a suspended metallic silver or gold chrysalis, about 24mm long.

     

Period of Activity
The butterfly appears throughout the year, but is most active during the warmer months.

Damage Caused
Larvae feed on the foliage, although this is seldom a major problem (unless a localised infestation results from many eggs having been laid on individual containerised plants).

Susceptible Plants
Many plants are attacked including Nerium oleander, Stephanotis floribunda, Trachelospermum jasminoidesand certain Ficusspecies.

Cultural Control
Not necessary.

BiologicalControl
Not necessary.

Chemical Control
Not necessary.