Brassica

Question 1

Plutella xylostella

Answer 1

Diamondback moth

Question 2

The adult moth is approximately 8 to 9 mm (1/3
inch) long with a wing span of 12 to 15 mm (½
inch). At rest, the moth folds its wings over the
abdomen in a tent-like manner. The folded
wings flare upwards and outward at the tips.

Answer 2

Plutella xylostella

Question 3

Larvae feed on the surface of the leaves
leaving the leaf epidermis intact creating a
“feeding window” appearance.
Feeding on growing points of the host plants
leads to stunting and severe damage.

Answer 3

Plutella xylostella

Question 4

Larvae are also known to bore into the flower
buds,
stalks
or
heads
of
broccoli
or
cauliflower that greatly reduce the quality of
the produce.

Answer 4

Plutella xylostella

Question 5

Monitor the area regularly.
Use of natural enemies like parasitoids.
❑ Use of microbial insecticides like Bacillus
thuringiensis to control insect population.
Use of natural enemies/parasitic wasps.
❑ Apply insecticides when necessary.

Answer 5

Plutella xylostella