Be sure to obtain current information about usage regulations and examine a current product label before applying any chemical. Individuals who use agricultural chemicals are responsible for ensuring that the intended use complies with current regulations and conforms to the product label. A&T State University nor discrimination against similar products or services not mentioned. The use of brand names and any mention or listing of commercial products or services in this publication does not imply endorsement by NC State University or N.C. Recommendations for the use of agricultural chemicals are included in this publication as a convenience to the reader. The moths are nocturnal, hiding under benches or other dark locations during the day. In tropical areas, Florida fern caterpillars are most damaging in dry seasons. ![]() Development is probably slower in winter months at northern latitudes as the caterpillars seem to do little damage during this period. Twelve to 16 days later (almost 4 weeks in cool weather), a new generation of moths emerges to mate and lay eggs. In about 36 days the caterpillars mature and spin a cocoon on the soil surface to pupate. Most of the larvae develop through five stages although some female larvae may develop through six stages. As the caterpillars mature they usually hide on the stems at the base of the plants or in the soil during the day. The eggs hatch in 5 to 7 days, and the tiny new caterpillars feed on the tender new leaflets mostly at night. Females averaged 465.4 eggs each in one study. The eggs are laid singly under fern leaflets near the tips. The caterpillars grow up to 1 1/ 4 inch long when mature. Sometimes green worms occur with thin, pale, yellow stripes on the back and bold, white stripes on each side. The Florida fern caterpillar has five color forms: a light-green forms a green form with an upper white line and a lower black line down each side a form with the upper and lower white and black lines down each side plus black spots on the back and upper sides a velvety dark-striped or black form and a velvety dark-striped or black form with a white line down each side. They are pale green with a yellow tint and are less than 1/ 32 inch wide. The eggs are slightly flattened spheres covered with tiny longitudinal and transverse ribs. The pupa occurs inside a cocoon that is usually covered with particles of soil and dead or cut leaflets. There are two minute, outcurved spines at the hind end. The pupa of the Florida fern caterpillar is reddish-brown and cylindrical, tapering toward the hind end and is about 3/ 4 inch long. Female moths tend to be darker than males. The legs are conspicuously tufted, especially in the males. ![]() The ends of the forewings are somewhat ragged. The forewings have a dark-reddish-brown triangle on the outer margin and a pale chevron at the tip. The moth of the Florida fern caterpillar, Callopistria floridensis, is an attractive brownish insect with variegated wings. Description and Biology Skip to Description and Biology
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