In this section:
Katydid
Caedicia spp.
Affected
Stone fruit and to lesser extent pome fruit.
Description
Katydids are grasshoppers which when fully grown are about 50 mm long. The top edge of the wings has a narrow yellowish band running along it and continuing on to the thorax.
Where and when to look
In early spring look for nymphs (smaller wingless versions of the adult) which tend to skeletonise the leaves of suckers and low branches.
Damage
Katydids bite into the surface of the fruit. This results in a white to grey scar which expands as the fruit grows. The scar is clearly visible on the fruit when it is dried. As katydids are extremely active many fruit can be damaged by a small number of insects.
Damage from nymphs is mainly restricted to the chewing of leaves, and is relatively unimportant.
Control
Control is best carried out early in the season before the nymphs develop wings. Only one generation hatches per year, however as the adult insects can fly, katydids can move in from surrounding blocks.
