Biological Characteristics and Life Cycle of the Neem Looper, Cleora cornaria (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) in Jalgaon District, North Maharashtra, India

Abstract

The present investigation was conducted on the biological characteristics and life cycle of the neem looper, Cleora cornaria (Lepidoptera: Geometridae) from September 2021 to November 2024 in the Jalgaon district, North Maharashtra. This study revealed that the life stages of looper comprised four distinct phases viz., egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The egg incubation period ranged from two to four days. Five instars were identified during larval development, with an average duration of 15-22 days. Non-feeding pupal stages were observed in soil and plant debris. The pupal period varied from 11 to 15 days. Adult females exhibited larger body lengths and wing spans than males. The lifespan of males was observed to be 6.3±1.16 days (range 5-8 days), while female longevity was 10.3±1.16 days (range 9-12 days). This study aimed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the biology of the pest, including its developmental stages, to enhance pest management strategies for its impact on neem plant.