The biology of Euproctis virguncula Walker (Lymantriidae: Lepidoptera) on cereals in the Punjab

The biology of Euproctis virguncula Wlk. is described from investigations in 1970-73 on maize and rice in the laboratory and on various cereals and other food-plants in the field in the Punjab, India. All stages of the insect are described. The Lymantriid remained active throughout the year, with a peak in August-October. In summer there were five larval instars and larval development (on maize silks) took 23-31 days. In winter there were 11 instars and development (on rice leaves from sprouted stubble) took 103-108 days. The pupal stage lasted 5-7 days in September and 14-15 days in February-March. The generations were distinct, and six generations a year were reared. The seasonal occurrence in the field on wheat, sorghum, rice, maize, pearl millet [Pennisetum typhoides] and other food-plants is described. Larvae caused only minor injury to the foliage of cereals and did not injure the grains, developing on anthers and mature silk when in the ears