Date: 28 July, 2026
During the monsoon season, humid weather conditions and intermittent rainfall create a favorable environment for the rapid increase of caterpillar infestations in groundnut crops. If not identified and managed at the right time, these pests can severely affect crop growth, leaf health, and ultimately reduce yield.
🐛 Major Caterpillars Found in Groundnut
1. Leaf Eating Caterpillar
- Initially feeds on the edges of leaves.
- Under severe infestation, it consumes the entire leaf, leaving only the veins.
- This reduces photosynthesis and slows down plant growth.
2. Tobacco Caterpillar
- Mostly active during the night.
- Damages leaves of both young and mature plants.
- Heavy infestation can completely defoliate the crop.
3. Armyworm
- Attacks crops in large groups.
- Can cause extensive damage within a short period.
- Infestations are more likely to increase after rainfall.
🔍 Symptoms of Infestation
- Small or large holes appear on the leaves.
- Green leaf tissue is eaten away.
- Plant growth becomes slow and weak.
- Caterpillar droppings or black pellet-like residues are visible in the field.
- Caterpillars are commonly seen on plants during the evening or early morning.
🌱 Management Guidelines
If the pest population reaches the Economic Threshold Level (ETL), use only registered and recommended insecticides as advised by the Department of Agriculture, Agricultural University, or a qualified agricultural expert. Always follow the dosage, safety precautions, and application instructions mentioned on the product label.
✅ Remember to Protect Your Crop
✔ Inspect your crop regularly.
✔ Never ignore early signs of caterpillar infestation.
✔ Maintain balanced fertilizer management.
✔ Ensure proper field drainage and optimum soil moisture.
✔ Seek guidance from agricultural experts whenever required.
Timely identification and proper management of caterpillar infestations can protect your groundnut crop, improve crop health, and help achieve higher yields with better quality produce.
For More Information, Contact: 99987 56798
Atur Agri Limited
“Always by the Side of Farmers’ Progress.”