Biological and Morphological Parameters of Trilocha varians (Lepidoptera: Bombycidae) in Pakistan

Abstract

| The biology and morphology of Trilocha varians was studied on Ficus benjamina (L.) under the laboratory conditions. The results on different biological and morphological parameters showed that the fecundity of female ranged from 160 to 281 which increased its survival rate. Trilocha varians has five larval instars. The last instar changed its colour to dark reddish and look like branches of host plants. The male and female mean longevity was 6.0 ± 1.171 and 11.4 ± 1.70 days. Pale reddish brown lines were present on the dorsal side of female forewings. Female forewings were broader than male wings with dark reddish brown thorax, head and abdomen. Adult hind wings were grayish with reddish brown outer margins. The biological and morphological information of Trilocha varians described in current paper will lead to proper management practices during peak reproductive period of insect to avoid pest outbreak. Novelty Statement | Trilocha varians is emerging pest of ornamental plants especially Ficus species that not only planted to increase the aesthetic value of country but also use as fruits and medicine. There is need to control this destructive pest of ornamental plants in Pakistan to min-imize the losses. The biology and morphology informations are very important before adopted any strategy against this pest. For this purposes, the current study was conducted and this is first study on this pest in Pakistan.