Biology
Spodoptera pectinicornis, a moth, is a biological
control agent for water lettuce. This moth has a very short
life cycle, approximately 35 days, with the larval stage lasting
17-20 days. The adult moth does not feed on water lettuce,
however, the larvae does and is capable of significant damage.
Spodoptera pectinicornis larvae are fairly large which means
that fewer larvae can cause more damage.
History
Spodoptera pectinicornis, a moth, is a native
specie of Thailand and was imported into Florida, and quarantined
for research in 1986. Spodoptera pectinicornis was widespread
in India and was reported to be very destructive to water
lettuce. Since its arrival in Florida it has been released
in the United States for the biological control of water lettuce.
This moth was released in Texas for research in 1991 at Brazos
Bend State Park.
Weeds Affected
This weevil is a biological agent for Water
Lettuce.
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