Pacific Pests, Pathogens & Weeds - Mini Fact Sheet Edition

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Taro hornworm (032)

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Photo 1. A caterpillar of  taro hornworm, Hippotion celerio, eating a leaf and leaving only the veins.

Photo 2. Severe damage to taro caused by the taro hornworm, Hippotion celerio; the leaves have been eaten leaving only the leaf stalks or petioles.

Photo 3. Solitary egg of taro hornworm, Hippotion celerio.

Photo 4. When mature the caterpillars of taro hornworm, Hippotion celerio, are dark brown.

Photo 5. Pupa taro hornworm, Hippotion celerio.

Photo 6. Adult taro hornworm, Hippotion celerio.

Summary

• Widespread distribution. In tropical and temperate Asia, Oceania. An important pest.
• Eggs are laid on the leaves and petioles. Mature caterpillars eat between veins, sometimes all the leaf.
• Look for the horn and the large eye spots.
• Outbreaks uncommon because of natural enemies, and other control measure not needed.
• Natural enemies: parasitoid wasps.
• Cultural control: visit garden regularly; handpick caterpillars; allow chickens into the taro fields.
• Chemical control: not usually required. If needed, use PDPs: neem, pyrethrum, or chilli; use products from bacteria, e.g., spinosad or Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) on young caterpillars. Alternatively, use synthetic pyrethroids, but likely to kill natural enemies.

Common Name

Taro hornworm

Scientific Name

Hippotion celerio

This mini fact sheet is a part of the app Pacific Pests, Pathogens & Weeds

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