Host Preferences of Hypsipyla robusta (Moore) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in West Java

Abstract

SUMMARY Most new attacks on host trees by the mahogany shoot borer occurred in September, October and November, coinciding with the rainy season and the flush of new growth on the trees. Adult moths were active throughout the year but few were caught in light traps from late December to late August. Progressive attack on new shoots produced a typical “bushy-top” condition, but severe damage was related to both age and size of trees. Larvae demonstrated a distinct preference for Swietenia macrophylla in two-way choice systems over Khaya anthotlieca and Toona sureni. Albizia falcataria, a non-host (not a natural food-plant of H. robusta), was not attacked when a food-plant was available.