13-spotted Tortoise beetle

Description:

The mated female beetle starts laying eggs 3 days after emergence and lays relatively few eggs, about 7 eggs. The eggs are laid singly in batches of 3 eggs per group. The incubation period lasts 5 to 6 days. There are 5 larva instars, each instar lasts 1-8 days with a total larval period of 7-30 days. The larva is sluggish and rarely moved from its feeding site unless disturbed or when changing feeding area. The larva carries the attached exuviae in an upright position concealing the larvae when at rest. When about to pupate the larva attaches itself firmly on the underside of the leaf. The pupa still carries the exuviae attached to the subanal spines. Pupal period ranges from 3-10 days. The total life cycle is 14-46 days. Longevity of adults lasts up to 2 weeks. Male to female ratio is 1.9:1.0.

Notes:

Host range : Sweetpotato is the main host, while other Convolvulaceae especially Ipomoea triloba are alternative hosts. Other crops which have been established as alternative hosts are coffee, beet, potato and various flowers.