Phase variation in the lawn caterpillar (Spodoptera abyssinia Guen.)

Abstract

The occurrence of phases in locusts is now accepted by most entomologists working on locust problems as an established fact. Recent investigations carried out by Faure (1943) and Matthee (1946) showed that Laphygma exempta (Hubn.) and L. exigua (Walk.), both belonging to the family Noctuidae, exhibit phase variation in the larval stage. Breeding experiments were undertaken by the writer. These experiments and other biological observations are discussed in this paper.