The distribution of cotton looper (Anomis flava Fabr.) larvae and larval damage on cotton and its relationship to the photosynthetic potential of cotton leaves at the attack sites

Abstract

Data are given for the distribution of larvae and larval damage of the cotton looper, Anomis flava Fabr., during periods of natural attack on cotton in the south-east Queensland region. A distinct distributional pattern developed in which larvae and major damage to leaves were centrally located on both the horizontal and vertical axes of the plant. The distribution and damage potential of the larval population was subsequently greatly modified by a nucleopolyhedrosis virus epizootic disease commonly recorded in cotton looper populations in the region. Major damage was caused to leaves 14–21 days old which were approximately midway through their photosynthetic capacity range and continuing to decline in photosynthetic importance. The data are considered relative to the inclusion of loopers in a complete pest management program currently being developed for cotton in the south-east Queensland region.