Spatial dynamics of teak defoliator (Hyblaea puera Cramer) - Cochin ...

Two moths (one male and one female) were collected when in flight on 6
April 1993. The female laid eggs on 8 April. Moths collected when in flight on 7
April were predominantly females (28 females and 1 male). The females laid eggs
on 8 April.
6.3.3.2. Movement ofmoths within teak plantations
The number of moths found in flight and the direction of their movement
as recorded in observations made between 18.45 hr and 19.30 hr over a period of
five days from 16 to 20 April are shown in Fig.6.2.
s
19 April N
E E
18.45-19.30 S 18.45-19.30 S
20 April N
18.45-19.30
Fig.6.2. Number and direction ofmoths found in flight at Ambalakkunnu, Kariem
Muriem.
On one of the days, observations were also made between 05.45 hr and
06.30 hr. An average of 1400 moths were observed in flight on each evening.
Uni-directional flight was observed on two occasssions -16 th dusk and 18 th dawn.
On other days, the movement was to different directions indicating diffusion of
moths in the plantation.
E
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