Webspinners
Webspinners (order Embioptera, family Embiidae) are a unique group of insects recognized by their ability to produce silk from glands located on their front legs. They are primarily found in tropical and subtropical regions. These insects build elaborate silk-lined galleries in soil, under stones, or on the surface of tree bark to protect themselves from predators and harsh environmental conditions.
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Webspinners
While webspinners often feed on decaying organic matter, lichens, and fungi, they can become pests by feeding on living plant tissues. They are known to attack various fruit trees, shrubs, and ornamental plants. When population densities are high, their feeding activity on bark and young buds can significantly weaken the plant, leading to stunted growth or branch dieback.
The biology of webspinners involves hemimetabolous development. Females demonstrate distinct maternal care, guarding their eggs and nymphs within the silk galleries. Nymphs closely resemble adults but are smaller and lack developed reproductive organs. The social structure within the silk nests helps maintain a stable microclimate, allowing them to thrive in diverse habitats.
The damage caused by Embiidae is primarily linked to their silk galleries, which can encase the stems and branches of host plants. This webbing interferes with the plant's normal growth and can promote secondary infections by pathogens. In high numbers, their constant scraping of the epidermis of young branches can severely damage the phloem tissues of sensitive cultivars.
Effective management of webspinners focuses on sanitation and chemical intervention when necessary. Removing dead wood, leaf litter, and unnecessary debris near crop zones helps destroy their natural habitat and reduces population growth. In cases of significant infestation, applying contact insecticides to the infested parts of the plants has proven to be an effective strategy to keep these pests under control.