Coconut spike moth

Systematic position: Tirathaba mundella belongs to the order Lepidoptera and the family Pyralidae. It is a significant agricultural pest known primarily for its impact on coconut palm plantations in the Asia-Pacific region.

Host crops: The primary host plant is the coconut palm (Cocos nucifera). The moth specifically targets the reproductive structures, causing severe economic damage by destroying flowers and young developing nuts.

Biology and life cycle: The lifecycle consists of four stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult. Eggs are laid on the inflorescences. The larvae are the destructive stage; they tunnel into the floral tissues and young fruit, feeding internally and protecting themselves within silk webs mixed with frass.

Damage and economic importance: The larval feeding causes the premature shedding of immature nuts. If not controlled, the pest can significantly reduce fruit set and overall harvest volumes, sometimes leading to total loss in specific palm clusters.

• Manual removal and destruction of infested inflorescences.
• Application of selective insecticides during the early flowering stage.
• Use of pheromone lures for monitoring and mating disruption.
• Conservation of native parasitoid wasps that naturally control moth populations.
• Implementation of regular plantation monitoring programs to detect outbreaks early.