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VARIABLE OAKLEAF CATERPILLAR
Mature larva of the VARIABLE OAKLEAF CATERPILLAR. |
| Other |
Prominent moth |
| Species |
Heterocampa manteo |
| Common Hosts: |
American elm Ulmus americana
Apple Malus spp.
Black oak Quercus velutina
Black walnut Juglans nigra
Hawthorn Crataegus spp.
Laurel oak Quercus laurifolia
Live oak Quercus virginiana
Persimmon Diospyrus virginiana
Water oak Quercus nigra
Willow oak Quercus |
Description |
Adult -- light to dark ashy-gray head and body; front pair of wings same color plus 6 dark wavy lines; hindwings light brown; wingspan approximately 40 mm.
Pupa -- size of adult; reddish-brown and with 2 small spines on rear tip.
Larva -- size variable, approximately 40 mm long when mature; amber head with 2 dark and 2 light side-bands; light pink to dark red broad stripes on back; body color green to yellow. |
Importance |
Trees that experience widely spaced years of defoliation rarely die. However, several consecutive years of severe defoliation will result in stressed trees. In combination with other stress factors, death may follow. |
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Adult moths of the first generation emerge from cocoons in the soil by early spring. The adults mate and the females lay eggs on the undersides of leaves. The larvae feed together in groups on the foliage. Mature larvae enter the soil to pupate. Second generation larvae are usually present during the fall months. Overwinter as prepupae (stage before true pupal stage) in the soil. |
| Number of Generations |
2 generations per year. |
Signs
of Infestation |
Loss of foliage. Falling frass (pellet-like caterpillar excrement) and caterpillars. Leaves skeletonized by young larvae; older larvae leave only the major leaf veins intact. Crown thinning and branch dieback. |
Control |
- Predators, parasites, disease, and unfavorable weather usually keep caterpillar populations at low levels. Outbreaks do occur, but subside in 2 or 3 years. Promote tree vigor and health to aid in the recovery from defoliation. Use an approved insecticide. CAUTION: variable oakleaf caterpillars produce formic acid when disturbed. Excessive handling may result in skin irritations for susceptible people.
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Bulletin No. 196-A | Printed October, 1983 | Contact the
Forest Health Section 
