First record of leaf miner, Phyllocnistis unipunctella (Stephens, 1834) (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae) infesting Populus deltoides Marsh (Salicaceae) in Jammu and Kashmir, India

Abstract

The study reports infestation of leaf miner Phyllocnistis unipunctella (Stephens, 1834) (Lepidoptera, Gracillariidae) on Populus deltoides Marsh (Salicaceae) in the UT of Jammu and Kashmir, India. The serpentine mining of leaves by larvae caused the leaves to dry out and turn brown, which lead to premature leaf drop, especially in severe infestations. Large populations rendered a silvery hue to the appearance of infested poplars when viewed from a distance. Pupation occurred inside the mine within a silken cell. Adults emerged after a period of 10-14 days. The infestation by this moth on poplars in the field was observed from the month of July to September.