Description

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Context:

Recently, the Chief Minister of Karnataka has sought a report from the Horticulture Department on the reported threat posed by the black-headed caterpillar (Opisina arenosella) disease to the coconut plantation across the state.

About Black-Headed Caterpillar:

Category	Details
Scientific Name	Opisina arenosella
Common Name	Black-Headed Caterpillar
Native Region	South and Southeast Asia
Primary Host	Coconut palms
Nature of Damage	Feeds on green tissues of coconut leaves, reducing photosynthesis and lowering yield
Habitat & Feeding	Caterpillars spin silken galleries on the underside of coconut fronds and feed on leaf tissue
Photosynthesis Impact	Loss of green leaf area hampers photosynthesis, resulting in weak growth and poor nut yield
Infestation Pattern	All age groups of coconut palms are affected; activity increases during hot summer months
Visible Symptoms	- Dried, brown patches on lower fronds - Only 3–4 central crown leaves remain green - Scorched appearance of groves in heavy infestation - Drooping leaves, bent fruit bunches, premature nut fall - Caterpillars may also feed on young nuts
Mode of Dispersal	Adult moths spread through the wind, rapidly infesting large areas
Seasonality	Present year-round with peak activity in hot, dry summers
Integrated Pest Management (IPM)	Neem-Based Pesticides: Neem oil and biopesticides repel and kill larvae, suitable for organic farming. Root Zone Fertility: Application of organic manure and micronutrients to enhance plant resistance. Biological Control: Goniozus nephantidis wasp parasitizes caterpillars; mass rearing is done in the southern states. Cultural Practices: Prune and burn infested fronds to limit early outbreaks. Nutrient Management: Improves plant vigor, reducing pest susceptibility
Government Response	- Damage assessment and hotspot identification by Karnataka Horticulture Dept - Scaling up the mass rearing of parasitoid wasps - Financial assistance and awareness programs for farmers - Strengthening research and early-warning systems

Source: The Hindu

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Which of the following pests, known to affect coconut plantations by feeding on green leaf tissues and reducing photosynthesis, has recently raised concerns in Karnataka?

(a) Opisina arenosella

(b) Spodoptera litura

(d) Leucinodes orbonalis

Answer: a

Explanation:

The Black-Headed Caterpillar (Opisina arenosella) is a destructive pest that primarily targets coconut palms. Native to South and Southeast Asia, it poses a serious threat to the productivity and health of coconut trees. The pest is notorious for damaging the green tissues of coconut leaves, thus diminishing the plant's ability to photosynthesize efficiently.