Aspects of the Biology of Borbo zezzeu Norman Ms (Lepidoptera: Hesperiidae) on Rice in Calabar, Nigeria
DOI:36108/NJE/2002/91.0101
EMOSAIRUE S.O.
ABSTRACT: Borbo zazzau Norman Ms has been identified as the most abundant rice leaf-folder or tier in Cross River State, Nigeria. The-life history studied under screened cages was completed in 33-43 days within the mean minimum and maximum temperature of 21.05 ± 0.12oC and 27.91 ± 0.14oC respectively and relative humidity of 84.8 ± 0.83%. The duration of the developmental stages (mean ± S.E) was embryonic development, 7.1 ± 0.28 days; l ” instar, 10.1 ± 0.35 days; 2nd instar, 4.5 ± O. 7 days; 3rd instar, 5.7 ± 0.26 days; pre-pupa, 20.2 ± 0.29 hours, and pupa, 10.2 ± 0.33 days. The head capsule measurement in the successive instars was 1.5 ± O.Olmm for I” instar, 1.92 ± 0.0lmm for 2nd instar and 2.50 ± 0.02mm for 3rd instar, giving the geometric progression ratio ranging :Tom 1.27 to 1.30. The 1st instar larvae caused scarification of young rice leaves while mature larvae caused serious defoliation.