Gram cutworm: Agrotis ipsilon :(Noctuidae:Lepidoptera)

Descriptions:

Adult:  brownish with numerous wavy lines and spots, measuring 3 to 5 cm across wings.

Eggs: laid on earth clods, chickpea stem bases and on both sides of leaves.

Larva:  dark brown with red head.

Pupa: Pupation takes place in earthen cocoon.

                                                     

Damaging symptoms:           

• The caterpillar hides during the day and come out in the evening for damage.
• They remain the soil at a depth of 2-4 inches.
• The caterpillars cut the tender plants at the base, and branches or stems of growing plants.
• The caterpillars drag the cut parts into soil for feeding.