Survival of Leafy Spurge Hawk Moths (Hyles euphorbiae) When Larvae Are Exposed to 2,4-D or Picloram

Abstract

Larvae of the leafy spurge hawk moth were sprayed with and/or were fed leafy spurge plants sprayed with 2,4-D or picloram. Larval survival was not affected from contact with the chemicals, from feeding on contaminated foliage, or from a combination of both. Viable second-generation adult moths were produced in all treatments. Thus, leafy spurge infested with the leafy spurge hawk moth can be sprayed with 2,4-D or picloram without injury to larvae that have reached the fourth or fifth instar stages.