Tobacco Caterpillar

Symptom

Young larvae first feed gregariously and scrape the leaves. Older larvae spread out and may completely devour the leaves, resulting in poor growth of plants. Feeding damage becomes apparent on the leaves.  It can result in complete defoliation of the plant. Mature larvae cause extensive damage to leaves, flower buds and fruits.  They hide in soil and crop debris during the day. Due to extensive feeding, only petioles and branches are left behind. Faecal pellets are seen on the leaves and on the ground which is the indicator of the pest incidence.