Parapoynx diminutalis Snellen, 1880 (Lepidoptera: Crambidae): A pest of submerged aquatic weed Hydrilla verticillata (L.f.) Royle

Abstract

Parapoynx diminutalis was observed in Hydrilla verticillata (a weed) in artificial tanks at Kerala Agricultural University. The incidence was so severe that the entire biomass of hydrilla was eaten away by the larvae which pupated in water. Pupal case was made of stem pieces of hydrilla, thus curtailing the growth and multiplication of the weed was suppressed in a period of one month indicating that this is a potential biocontrol agent for the weed.