Host plants and species diversity of Mussidia (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in Kenya

Abstract

Mussidia nigrivenella (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), an important pest of maize, cotton and Phaseolus bean in western Africa, has never been described as a crop pest from Eastern and southern Africa (ESA), although it was reported in the wild. Generally, little is known about the host plant range and the diversity of Mussidia spp. in ESA. Thus, surveys were carried out in Kenya between 2005 and 2007 to assess the species diversity and host plants of Mussidia. Eight plant species were found to host two Mussidia spp. and six morphospecies, which occur sympatrically in the coastal region. Only one Mussidia sp. was found attacking one host plant in the mid-altitudes. The spatial distribution of M. nr. nigrivenella, M. ‘madagascariensis’ and M. fiorii was studied. M. nr. nigrivenella and M. ‘madagascariensis’ larvae were aggregated on Canavalia cathartica and Strychnos madagascariensis, respectively, while the distribution of M. fiorii adults on Kigelia africana was regular. Sampling plans were developed for three Mussidia spp. on their respective host plants, allowing estimation of pest densities. The occurrence of M. nigrivenella in ESA could not be determined with absolute certainty.