Can you identify this slug, worm, caterpillar or whatever it is and how do I kill it? And how to protect these trees long term against it?
Please see the three pics
Have 3 young citris trees - been invaded and eaten by the ??
I believe that is caterpillar of a swallowtail butterfly. Probably a citrus swallowtail. Unless they are completely defoliating your trees, I would leave them alone. If a few chewed leaves is the worst damage you have , just wait and see. Several types of scale, mealy bugs,and citrus leaf miner will really get your attention. LOL!
Looks like 50% or more of the new growth is badly chewed. Not just a nip or two.
As much as I like butterflies, this one has to go.
Dipel is one brand name, Thuricide is another.
The active ingredient is specific to caterpillars. Bacillus thuringiensis.
Thanks for the input to my question. Although different I understand both sides. I do believe I will elect to rid the trees of the problem. When they get bigger and the damage not so proportionately significant, I may wait to see the butterflies.
Have a Great Day!
Here is some general info on citrus cultivation, pests, diseases etc. from the Ag Center at LSU.
http://www.lsuagcenter.com/en/crops_livestock/crops/citrus/Insects+that+attack+citrus+in+Louisiana.htm
http://www.lsuagcenter.com/en/crops_livestock/crops/citrus/
A little later but that is definitely a Giant swallow tail buttery in the making. I have a wild lime bush to provide a host plant & food. Sometimes I’d “raise” them in a netted plastic container, large on with sides remove & screening attached. Providing fresh cut wild lime every 2 day. They will spray you with an awful stink if you get too close or irate them. It’s great watch the stages, chrysalis. When they emerge, I let them go. They’re good eater, not monarch good though! Monarch can do some damage on milkweed! Quite a few times I’ve had to hunt down milkweed or they’d starve!
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