Description:
Diamondback larvae are small (about 1/3 inch when full grown) compared to many other pest larvae. The larval body is wider in the middle and tapers at both ends with 2 prolegs on the last segment forming a distinctive V-shape at the rear end. When disturbed, larvae wiggle frantically and rapidly attach a silken line to a leaf and drop over the edge.
Damage:
They feed mostly on outer or older leaves of plants, chewing out small holes or at the growing points of young plants. They will also feed on floral stalks and flower buds.
Life cycle:
Larvae mature in 10 to 14 days and spin a loose cocoon on leaves or stems for pupation. Moths oviposit their tiny, round eggs singly on the undersides of leaves; eggs are difficult to find. Although they may occur all year round, especially in coastal areas, diamondback moths are often abundant in spring and early summer with populations increasing again in the fall.
