plaster bagworm life cycle plaster bagworm life cycle

The eggs look like small blue ovals with a pale tint and are less than 0.5mm in length. Plaster worms thrive when the humidity is high. New York. Youll also want to make sure that you use a desktop lamp thats rated for hours of continuous usage. One of the most effective ways to get rid of plaster bagworms in your house is to maintain cooler temperatures inside. This is one of the easiest ways to kill bagworms without using any dangerous chemicals. Remove the dead bagworm safely. Meanwhile, hooked false legs help it turn around inside the casing. Inside the bag the caterpillar transforms to the moth stage. The caterpillar is only about a quarter of an inch long. As the worm grows it spins a silken bag around its body, camouflaged with bits and pieces of the host foliage. Two hundred eggs may be oviposited by a single female over a period of a week, after which she dies. Res. If youre finding bagworms in your trees, bushes, or plants outside, they may not be plaster bagworms. Turns out, there are a ton of DIY home remedies you can do for free (or damn close to free) without having to spend money on expensive and dangerous chemicals. If you want to prevent these flying insects from laying eggs in or around your house, youll need to reduce the lighting outside. Hetrick LA. Bagworms life cycle are differentiated into separate stages, much like any other organism. Moths cant help but fly towards the light. This makes it difficult to do for a typical homeowner and should only be used if you know what youre doing. Hinton HE, Bradley JD. As long as theres an entryway into your garage, basement, bedroom, dresser, shed, outhouse, or wherever else you see them, thats all thats needed for them to infest your home. The anterior crochets are bigger and broader than posterior ones by one third, which is a good detail for identification. Due to the active international exchange of goods, other case-bearing moths may occur in Florida in the future. Finally, an early synonym established by Meyrick was recognized as the most appropriate name, and the species was named Phereoeca dubitatrix (Meyrick 1932). In most cases, plaster bagworms start their life outdoors. Always empty your vacuum bags or dump out the canister. An Introduction to the Study of Insects. So they have both a crawling and flying phase. This may help prevent the future generation of bagworms from developing because the Bt eats up the larvae and prevents them from spawning. Most people know this species by the name plaster bagworm. Then scrub your walls with the wet sponge. A larva of the household casebearer, Phereoeca uterella Walsingham, which is partially emerged from its case and using its true legs to walk on a surface. 1954. Bagworm cocoons ('bags') dangling from trees. These are the protective bags of bagworms, also commonly confused with casebearers. Busck A. Rooms or areas that are dirty or ignored will be swarming with empty cases and live larvae. The cases are constructed during the caterpillar stage (larval) and this is when most people notice them. Its bred from bacteria found in the soil and can kill bagworms very quickly. Hinton HE. 1957. Fortunately, getting rid of plaster bagworms is pretty easy if you take the proper steps. What time of year do you spray for bagworms? Plaster bagworms are unwelcome guests that can quickly wreak havoc on your home. Theyre also found in South America and other southern countries. Climb up there safely, and start picking them off your ceiling. Some people and pets may be sensitive to essential oils, talcum powder, diatomaceous earth, boric acid, etc. Here is a glimpse into the various Bagworm life stages - The eggs of Bagworm moths hatch in end of May and beginning of June. The larvae of the species of Tineidae of economic importance. Theyre mainly attracted to a stable food source with minimal disturbances. You can also spray dish soap, vinegar, or essential oils for a residual effect. Even if you sweep away spiderwebs, the bugs food source only ends up on the floor. They fly fairly well, but usually rest on walls, floor edges, or on webs of house spiders (theridiids) (Aiello 1979). For insect pest species, Pheno Forecasts are based on published growing degree day (GDD) thresholds for key points in species life cycles. The larva is a caterpillar that carries the case/bag along with it as it forages. Curiously enough, plaster bagworms are the larval stage of a moth! Put on a pair of garden gloves, goggles, and long sleeves because were going to get dirty! He also assumed that this species might be present in the coastal areas of Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, Texas, and Virginia. Plaster bagworms have a diet of wool, spiderwebs, and even the discarded cases of other bagworms. If you do find their cases stuck on your clothing or furniture, double-check for more so you can confirm it wasnt a fluke. Due to its food habits the household casebearer is a potential household pest. Webs of insects such as booklice (Psocoptera) and webspinners (Embioptera) from tree trunks were also suitable food. The cases are constructed by the larval (caterpillar) stage and often attract attention when found in homes. Most people know this species by the name plaster bagworm. Theyre likely a different species altogether, but heres a tip. After mating the female lays 500 to 1000 eggs within her bag and then she dies. Entomologica Americana 13: 151203. Cases can be found on wool rugs and wool carpets, hanging on curtains, or underneath buildings, hanging from subflooring, joists, sills and foundations; on the exterior of buildings in shaded places, under farm sheds, under lawn furniture, on stored farm machinery and on tree trunks. The moth larva is protected from the elements through the case and can be found enclosed within the material. This is why theyre commonly found in areas that are usually unkempt, like garages, basements, or attics. They are gray with up to four spots on the fore wings, and a brush of long, lighter gray hair-like scales along the posterior margin of the hind wings. Leaving them in there allows them to escape. However, another name change occurred and the current official common and scientific names for this species are the household casebearer, Phereoeca uterella Walsingham. All have wingless (or nearly wingless) adult females that do not leave their bags, and the males are usually drab blackish shades. However, proper identification by a specialist is advised, because case-bearing species other than P. uterella might be in those states. Plaster bagworms are so distinct that many people refer to them as a separate entity entirely. Dont worry. Food habits of Tineola uterella. Generally, they will stay close to wherever food is near. The remaining mouth parts are reduced and adults do not feed. First, manually remove all the bagworm larvae you can see in your home. I just moved here four months ago. Boca Raton. LIFE CYCLE There is incomplete information about the life cycle of this insect in . How to get rid of plaster bagworms naturally, Use a bug zapper to kill adult bagworm moths. They remain in the pupal stage an average of 15.6 days (range of 11 to 23 days). Theres no single foolproof technique. These can also be used as materials for their cases, matching whatever is present in their environment. You dont need to make a huge hole in it. Control of four household insects. And they may also attack shrubs. So then I created this site to share everything Ive learned over the years (and continuing to learn)- natural solutions that are proven to work against the bug thats bugging you! Your email address will not be published. But when woolen threads and woolen cloth were offered to the larvae "they ate eagerly". Then theyll pupate and emerge as an adult moth just to continue the cycle. Arnett Jr RH. The caterpillar larvae are the larvae phase of their lifecycle. The lifecycle of a bagworm is nothing special. Cover it up with a curtain or shut the shutters to prevent bringing moths to your windows, door gaps, and other areas of your home. Photograph by Lyle J. Buss, University of Florida. Preferably one that doesnt damage your paint finish. Hetrick (1957) found that the most common and abundant food of the household casebearer in Florida is old spider webs, consumed in large quantities. They have two long visible antennas and a wingspan of about 12mm in length. Moth eggs on your walls can be ridden by using a wet sponge dipped in soapy water. Invest in a portable AC, ductless AC, or window unit to keep every inch of your house climate controlled. This isnt the most efficient home remedy to get rid of plaster bagworms, but you can clean up an infestation quickly without using any chemicals. The case is constructed by the earliest larval stage (1st instar) before it hatches, and is enlarged by each successive instar. A braconid wasp,Apanteles carpatus(Say), parasitizes larvae of case-bearing moths, killing the larva before pupation. At non-air-conditioned room temperature in Panama, the life cycle of Phereoeca uterella (a close relative of Phereoeca dubitatrix) was reported by Aiello (1979) as follows: Eggs require more than 10 days to hatch. Figure 4. The fully developed larva is about 7 mm long, It has a dark brown head, and the rest of the body is white, except for the lateral and dorsal plates on the three thoracic segments close to the head, which are hardened and dark. An adult female moth that has mated has found its way into your home and laid eggs on your walls. Also, read all warnings and labels on any kind of application you use as a home remedy on your property. This is best used for bagworms found in plants and trees. Start by using the techniques listed here that you can do right away. They may have other suggestions for the best time to spray. Finally, an early synonym established by Meyrick was recognized as the most appropriate name, and the species was named Phereoeca dubitatrix (Meyrick 1932). There are six to seven larval instars that require about 50 days to mature. Theres no need to use it during the daytime because moths are nocturnal (active at night). Dont scrub up and down. Consider hiring a professional exterminator if you have specific questions on using natural predators to handle plaster bagworms. On the top and bottom of the oval-shaped case, theres a slit-like opening. The cocoon is made up of silk fiber and other organic materials. You also may come across additional areas of activity. There are six to seven larval instars that require about 50 days to mature. Please help me. You may also see adult plaster moths, which are dark gray with 3-4 patches on their front wings and lighter colored hairs on their head. Lastly, you can also attract natural predators to help eat up moths and larvae like, How to Get Rid of Puss Caterpillars Naturally (Ultimate, How to Get Rid of Hummingbird Moths Naturally (Ultimate, How to Get Rid of Squash Bugs Naturally (Organic DIY, How to Get Rid of Oleander Pests Naturally (Aphids,, How to Get Rid of Mole Crickets Naturally (DIY Guide), How to Get Rid of Pests on Geraniums Naturally (Fast and, How to Get Rid of Glassy Winged Sharpshooters (Naturally), How to Get Rid of Blister Beetles Naturally (Guide). The insect might use nearby lint, sand, or even dry plaster debris. Larva: The larva is not usually seen by most people. You mention how to get rid of these pests, but you dont say how to keep them from coming back into your house? The larval case is a slender, flat, fusiform, or spindle-shaped case which resembles a cantaloupe or pumpkin seed. She remains inside while the winged, male moth does emerge to fly about the infested tree to locate the waiting female. The key is to only plant whats in season and grows in your hardiness zone. Before eclosion the pupa pulls itself halfway through the valve. Each molt results in a larger case. The eggs of the bagworms hatch around the springtime. Watson (1939) corroborated the preference of Pjerepeca uterella for woolen goods of all kinds. Theyre especially prevalent in the state of Florida. Just a small perforation is enough for the dish soap to kill the bagworm. The larva has three pair of well-developed, brown legs. Plus, its a lot safer compared to chemical compounds which often leave behind nasty and dangerous residues. There are many types and brands of sticky tape and traps. The case has tapered ends that are narrow with a bulging center. Very small particles of sand, soil, iron rust, insect droppings, arthropod remains, hairs, and other fibers are added on the outside. From egg to adult takes about 74 days on average. Most of the biology described here was taken from Aiello's (1979) description of Phereoeca allutella, a closely related case-bearing moth species from Panama. When used properly, you can kill bagworms in just 48 hours after spraying. Life history and behavior of the case-bearer Phereoeca allutella (Lepidoptera: Tineidae). To address the wool problem, keep all of your items in sealed plastic bags. The bagworm nest is made of silk, twigs, and bits of leaves. Theyre not as bad as dust mites and cockroaches, but allergy-sufferers can still feel the effects of their presence. 1956. The compound eyes are prominent. The same year Kea wrote about the food habits of the species present in Florida, using the name given by Walsingham (T. uterella). Consider attracting sparrows, woodpeckers, sapsuckers, and other common garden avian species to your yard. Not sure why theyre here. It is commonly known as the plaster bagworm but as the term "bagworm" m. The adult female will deposit hundreds of eggs which hatch into larvae. And dont forget about the light that comes from inside your home. The case is constructed by the earliest larval stage (1st instar) before it hatches, and is enlarged by each successive instar. Juan A. Villanueva-Jimenez and Thomas R. Fasulo, Credit: Juan A. Villanueva-Jimnez, UF/IFAS, This document is EENY003, one of a series of the Department of Entomology and Nematology, UF/IFAS Extension. Apply a layer of adhesive sticky tape around the baseboards of any area that has bags. Youll want to make its secure and wont fall into the mixture and nothing can knock it over. Its only the wool items you have to protect. Start out with what you have available in your home already (the easiest ways), then move on to the harder ones assuming that you still have plaster bagworms crawling around your house. Youre getting rid of plaster bagworms by getting rid of OTHER pests first. And then utilize these plants to keep the bagworms away: Whatever zone you live in, you should be able to find a few plants. It has a dark brown head, and the rest of the body is white, except for the lateral and dorsal plates on the three thoracic segments close to the head, which are hardened and dark. It is possible that records of Phereoeca uterella might be misidentified as this species or vice versa. Entomol. State of Florida, Department of Agriculture, Tallahassee. In 1956, Hinton and Bradley described the new genus Phereoeca, in order to separate the true Tineola from this and other species of flat case-bearing moths. Figure 3. Regardless, theyre not something most homeowners will welcome with an embracing hug into their homes, so take measures to get rid of them. They roam around with their cases in search of food - random debris, spiderwebs, fabrics, plaster, and even furniture. The first record of this species came from Lord Walsingham in 1897 (Busck, 1933). The compound eyes are prominent. Upon hatching, the entire lifecycle of the plaster bagworm can be completed in about 2-3 months. 1933. You can keep bagworms away by using a combination of home remedies. This is when theyre most active and also the hardest time to get rid of them because their numbers are in full force. The dark colored bagworm caterpillars are 1/8 to one inch long when they first hatch. Also, dont try to attract some bird species that are not native to your area. Lowering the relative humidity makes the environment less favorable to bagworms. That said, these bugs can cause a lot of damage around your house. And its natural. Too terrified to puncture them. Turn off the porch and security lights (especially at night) to ensure that the moths stay away. Read some reviews and buy one, then use it as directed. Females mate with males during the warmer months. Pupa: Pupation occurs inside the case. But when you only see ONE end, such as when it hangs from your ceiling, its not pupating yet and the caterpillar still can come out and move around. 47: 251346. They start as a caterpillar (known as the larvae) and crawl around with the silk bag tied to their backs. The larval case is a slender, flat, fusiform or spindle-shaped case which resembles a pumpkin seed. Stand back and assess. The bagworm has two separate phases of its life cycle that calls for distinct appearances. Aiello (1979) succeeded in rearing specimens of the related species Phereoeca allutella by offering them dead mosquitoes and her own hair. Life Cycle Management Common name: . Moth traps can help catch the adult bagworm moths and reduce the number of progeny in the future. You can use a variety of treatments such as sticky traps, essential oils, manual removal, natural predators, vinegar or dish soapy sprays, and natural herbal remedies. Without any food to survive, plaster bagworms have no choice but to vacate your home and look elsewhere for food. It was found in Gainesville, Florida, and has been recorded as present in the southern contiguous US, Hawaii, Mexico, Bermuda, Brazil, Peru, Venezuela, Europe, Africa, Malaya, Australia, and other localities. Both species follow a similar way of life but have different classifications. Head of adult household casebearer, Phereoeca uterella Walsingham. After the first case is completed, the larva starts moving around, pulling its case behind. As mentioned earlier, these bugs don't eat cotton or nylon. The tunnel is closed beneath by the larva to form a tube free from the substrate, and open at both ends. To address the wool problem, keep all of your items in sealed plastic bags. Consider keeping spiders out of your property by using a variety of home control remedies: The best way to prevent spiders is to keep your home free of pests. If you absolutely need a light to be overnight, consider replacing them with a yellow bulb. If you have a part of your house thats not insulated or cooled, consider taking steps to change that. Bagworms lay eggs that hatch as moths between the last days of May through the early weeks of June. Your vacuum cleaner is your best friend against plaster bagworms. Theyll fall into the dish soap mixture and drown because of the soap. Before eclosion the pupa pulls itself halfway through the valve. I find that simply using a pen taped to rod or pole is enough. No pest control company wants to work with this. Hetrick (1957) observed the insect in many parts of Florida and Louisiana, as well as USDA records of the household casebearer from Mississippi and North Carolina. These bugs go by many other names, with some people referring to them as dust worms or household case bearers. The complete life cycle of plaster bagworms contains 6-7 instars and takes about 40-50 days to complete. Theyre also not picky about shelter provided that their humidity needs are met. Disclaimer: Always consult with a qualified professional exterminator prior to beginning any pest control plan. So, what about the actual bug? They are gray with up to four spots on the fore wings, and a brush of long, lighter gray hair-like scales along the posterior margin of the hind wings. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment and Ill get back to you. Over many months, you may end up with a TON of plaster bagworms, especially if you dont keep your home maintained. It is silk-lined inside and open at both ends. The entire cycle from egg to adult averages 74.2 days (62 to 86 days). If you live in the South, you know the stark difference a powerful air conditioner can make. Also, there are many different types of sticky tapes and sticky traps you can use. Watson JR. 1946. Not only will it lower the ambient temperatures inside, but itll also continually work to remove moisture from the air. Biology: This moth is closely related to the Household Casebearer, which is discussed separately and which is a distinct species. If you need to resort to chemical pesticides to kill plaster bagworms, heres what youll want to look for. Scales are also visible. Three sets of legs help the caterpillar walk on horizontal surfaces. He also assumed that this species might be present in the coastal areas of Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, Texas and Virginia. Interestingly enough, plaster bagworms dont consume food crumbs or leftovers you leave on the kitchen counter. They start as a caterpillar stuck in a silk case where theyll crawl around your home, eating old webs and debris. Microlepidoptera of Cuba. The larva cuts a short slit along both edges to make that end flatter, which acts as a valve. After mating, females lay their eggs on crevices and the junction of walls and floors, cementing them on debris. The heads of both sexes are uniformly clothed with dense, rough hairs. However, we usually see only the empty larval or pupal cases of the household casebearer on walls of houses in south and central Florida. It can be found under spiderwebs, in bathrooms, bedrooms and garages. In most states there is only one generation per year. Also, apply sticky traps outdoors to catch any adult moths. The soap adds a high surface tension to the water, which makes it very difficult for them to escape once they land in it. Moths will be attracted to the lamp and gravitate towards it. A lot of leading companies have green or natural approaches, so find one that has alternative pest control treatments and ask about them. They start as a caterpillar (known as the larvae) and crawl around with the silk bag tied to their backs. Its a chain reaction, but a catch-22 at the same time. Watson JR. 1939. Namely, vespid wasps, woodpeckers, sapsuckers, and other predatory flying insects will eat them up without hesitation. Then, hang nylon socks with moth repellents like herbs and spices and tape them to the areas with heavy infestations. Be careful about leaving the lamp on overnight. Aiello (1979) believes the plates protect the larva from natural enemies when it reaches out of its case for locomotion. 156, new series. The inside of the arch is lined exclusively by silk, and is gradually extended to form a tunnel, while the larva stays inside. Sometimes its a day or two and I dont see them and then suddenly I The bagworm is most common in southern regions of Pennsylvania. The Entomologist 89: 42-47. In 1956, Hinton and Bradley described the new genus Phereoeca, in order to separate the true Tineola from this and other species of flat case-bearing moths. Eggs take about 1-2 weeks to hatch but vary depending on environmental conditions, species, and temperature. The hindwings are just a solid gray or dark brown color with no patterning. Eggs are soft, pale bluish, and about 0.4 mm in diameter. Blast them off and clean them up. The females are usually more patterned than males. Plaster bagworms mainly survive on wool and spiderwebs. I may be able to help you out! Patterns and markings will vary depending on the species and environmental conditions. The first record of this species came from Lord Walsingham in 1897 (Busck, 1933). Regardless, the techniques to get rid of them remain largely the same and are effective for both. Plaster bagworms arent inherently dangerous. After a while, the species in the peninsula was recognized as T. walsinghami. Its primarily white and has a brown head. So the dish soap actually will slip right off and wont kill the bagworm if you spray it directly. However, the specimens that he collected from the Virgin Islands were misidentified. This puts the power of all of them into one powerful treatment plan. The ventral prolegs are white and are located on abdominal segments 3 to 6 and 10. Hinton HE. The silk lining allows orifices at both ends. Adult female household casebearer, Phereoeca uterella Walsingham. Eggs are soft, pale bluish, and about 0.4 mm in diameter. Bull. For example,Phereoeca allutella(Rebel) has been recorded in Hawaii, Panama, Canary Islands, Madeira, Sierra Leone, Seychelles, Sri Lanka, India, Java and Samoa. Thats because when they pupate, youll see BOTH ends of the case cemented to a vertical surface. You might also find them hanging off of exterior stucco, near outdoor lights, or underneath chairs and benches. New York. Have the soapy water spray everywhere . Whatever you call them, these insects have several distinct traits. With each molt, the larva enlarges its case. After the bagworm eggs hatch, the larvae start spinning a silk strand that dangles down from the pouch. Life cycle of bagworms In the end of the summer the bagworm caterpillars stop feeding and seal each bag shut after securely tying it to a twig, stem or even nearby structure. Figure 2. These funky insects can be quite annoying, but arent too difficult to handle as long as you take the right approach. Figure 5. 3943. Pests that try to climb up will be stuck on the tape and cant get across. Be careful not to scrub too hard as some paint finishes are sensitive to soap. Gently stir until you see the suds appear. Pupation occurs inside the case. The Entomologist 89: 4247. Adults at rest hold their wings tented over the body. The labial palps extend a little beyond the head vestiture (dense covering of hairs). The larvae part of their life cycle consists of walking around and foraging for food. Theres no limit to where the cases are found. Dish soap does indeed kill plaster bagworms and can be used as a home remedy for a pesticide. The larva has true legs and will emerge from the case to walk across surfaces, dragging the case with it like a snail. Since webs are largely transparent and invisible, you can use a flashlight and shine it around darker corners of the room to make sure you dont miss any. Work with the birds that are already in your neighborhood and find out how to get more for them to your garden. University of Florida, Agricultural Experiment Station Bulletin 536. 39-43. Plaster bagworms mainly survive on wool and spiderwebs. Keep it handy for the next time you encounter one. American Insects: A Handbook of the Insects of America North of Mexico. Photograph by Lyle J. Buss, University of Florida. The eggs are found on crevices, cracks, and joints of doors, walls, and baseboards. Bagworm is a caterpillar that molts into a moth in the adult stage. Reviewed June 2020. You can buy one at a hardware store or online and position it somewhere where you always see moth activity. The bag will usually have a mixture of soil, felt, woolens, hair, sand, feces, fibers, and other debris they harvest from your home. until they pupate. Photograph by Lyle J. Buss, University of Florida. They may also have been smuggled into your house from newly purchased products, such as plants, carpet, furniture, and more. Plaster bagworms eat abandoned spider webs, fabric, wool, and even the larval cases of other bagworms.