Pear and cherry slug

Caliroa cerasi

Overview:

Caliroa cerasi, commonly known as the Cherry Slug or Pear Slug, is not a true slug but the larval stage of a sawfly. Sawflies belong to the order Hymenoptera and are related to bees and wasps. The larvae of C. cerasi can be pests on cherry and pear trees, causing damage to the foliage.

Detailed Appearance:

  • The larvae, often referred to as slugs, are slug-like in appearance with a slimy, translucent greenish-black body.
  • They have a slimy covering that can make them resemble slugs, hence the common name.
  • Fully grown larvae are about 1.5 centimeters long.

Life Cycle:

  • The life cycle includes egg, larva, pupa, and adult stages.
  • Adult sawflies lay eggs on the undersides of leaves.
  • Larvae hatch and feed on the upper surface of the leaves.
  • Larvae go through several instars before pupating in the soil.
  • Adult sawflies emerge from pupae, and the cycle repeats.

Identification of Crop Infestation:

  • Presence of slimy, slug-like larvae feeding on the upper surface of leaves.
  • Damage manifests as skeletonized areas on the leaves, leaving a lace-like pattern.

Management Strategies:

  • Cultural Controls:

    • Handpick and destroy larvae when their numbers are low.
    • Prune and remove heavily infested plant parts.

  • Biological Controls:

    • Encourage natural enemies such as parasitoid wasps and predatory insects.
    • Birds may feed on the larvae, helping to control populations.

  • Chemical Controls:

    • Apply insecticides labeled for sawfly control when populations are high.
    • Focus on the early stages of larval development for effective control.

  • Horticultural Oils:

    • Use horticultural oils to smother and control larvae.
    • Apply oils according to product instructions.

  • Neem Oil:

    • Neem oil has insecticidal properties and can be effective against sawfly larvae.
    • Follow label instructions for application.

  • Barrier Methods:

    • Apply physical barriers like floating row covers to protect plants during vulnerable stages.
    • This can prevent adult sawflies from laying eggs on leaves.

Regular monitoring and prompt action are essential for managing Cherry Slug infestations effectively. Integrated pest management (IPM) practices that combine various control methods are often the most sustainable approach. Consult with local agricultural extension services for region-specific recommendations.