Mango-tree eating caterpillars have been discovered in six of Bali's nine regencies in a plague that is threatening to reach 'biblical proportions', website Balidiscovery.com reported.

The outbreak on the Indonesian island includes three different types of caterpillars, of which two have been destroying fruit crops, the story reported.

Experts have attributed the spread to moths laying eggs in car headlights, while others say it is due to a declining population of birds that eat the insect.

Some farmers are using insecticides but officials in some areas are encouraging people to eat the caterpillars, the story reported.

Scientists at Udayana University are currently working on eradication strategies for the pest that has been found in Denpasar, Buleleng, Gianyar, Jembrana, Karangasem and Klungkung.

Photo: www.balidiscovery.com

Source: www.freshfruitportal.com