A Morning in Nannilam Eco Village

Anbu
Cuckoo Forest School

Teak defoliator caterpillar on Teak leaf

It's a fine day in Nannilam Eco Village. The sun was not yet up when I woke in a beautiful bamboo hut. The early light was a soft bluish hue, mingling with the last traces of darkness. Nearby, a magnificent myrobalan (Terminalia chebula) stood, its beautiful inflorescence constantly surrounded by wild bees during the daytime. A Banyan tree (Ficus benghalensis) was growing within the myrobalan, symbolizing a form of motherhood and sacrifice.

I greeted both trees with a heartfelt "Happie morning" and began to roam around Nannilam. Walking barefoot through the forest, I felt a sense of meditation in each step. The crisp morning air, filled with the sounds of birds chirping, invigorated my senses. Occasionally, I indulged in some playful runs, jumps, and hikes.

As the sky transitioned to a brilliant orange, I noticed an unusual sight.the ground was covered with countless black objects. Curious, I looked around and found myself in a teak forest, surrounded by Tectona grandis trees. The leaves were mostly reduced to their veins, creating an intricate lace-like pattern.

Intrigued by this natural artwork, I get to know the culprits—moth larvae. Specifically, they were teak defoliator larvae, the caterpillars of the Hyblaea puera moth. These larvae have a distinctive appearance, with blackish heads and small hairs covering their bodies. They are known for their voracious appetite for teak leaves, which can significantly impact teak plantations. The teak defoliator undergoes four larval stages before pupating and emerging as an adult moth. They primarily feed on teak leaves, causing extensive defoliation that can lead to reduced growth and vitality of teak trees. These larvae can severely affect teak plantations, reducing timber quality and yield, which has significant economic implications for forestry. Fortunately, natural predators such as birds—particularly the Black Drongo (Dicrurus macrocercus)—help control the larvae population in the wild.

Teak defoliator caterpillar on hand

From a biodiversity perspective, the Hyblaea puera moth plays a crucial role in the ecosystem. While its larvae can cause significant damage to teak trees, they also serve as a food source for various predators. This predation helps maintain ecological balance by regulating the moth population.

Understanding the interactions between species and their environment highlights the importance of biodiversity. Each organism, no matter how small or seemingly destructive, has its place and purpose in the larger web of life.

Experiences like this remind me of the beauty and complexity of our natural world. They are a testament to the wonders waiting to be discovered if we take the time to observe and appreciate our surroundings.

In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks. 
~John Muir