Lycaenid larvae

Lycaenids are the second largest family of butterflies. The larvae are often flattened and generally has glands that may produce secretions that attract and subdue ants. Some larvae can produce low frequency sound that is transmitted through the substrates they inhabit to communicate with ants.

Adult lycaenids are swallow-tailed with hairy antennae-like tails complete with black and white ringed appearance mimicking eyes. Predators approaching from behind the “eyes” actually faces the head enabling early visual detection of the predator by the little butterfly.

Lycaenids are pests of orchids. The larvae may be found on the flowers, young leaves and shoots. While feeding on the specific parts of the plants, it acquires the sap color of the plant rendering itself camouflaged. On pink flowers, it is pink, on white ones, it is white and while muching on the leaves, it turns green.

Nursery operators use contact insecticides to control lycaenid damage on their floral crop. Home growers of orchids on the other hand are advised to use the safer soap solution or detergent to manage lycaenid larvae problem by spraying directly on the insect.

Infestation of lycaenids is usually associated with Cycas plants and palms, which are their main host.

Lycaenid damage on Phalaenopsis. Take note of the eaten up anther cap and the partially consumed pollinia. This is characteristic of lycaenid damage. As the caterpillar grows bigger, it finishes off the pollinia. Orchid pollinia are rich in nucleic...

The easiest way to detect Lycaenid infestation is when the droppings show up on the flowers or the young leaves.

Lycaenid egg deposited on lip of Dendrobium discolor. Emerging caterpillar will soon acquire the rich yellow brown color of the flower.

Hole cut by a young lycaenid larva going straight for the anther.

Lycaenid is a master of camouflage. The little caterpillar acquires the pigments from the plant sap and use it to hide from predators.

Newly hatched egg on Vanda merrilli var. Rotorii bud. Insect has bored a small hole and has started feeding inside the bud.

Typical damage created by a singular Lycaenid larva.