water lilly leaves being eaten?

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limelightgarden Garden City, ID Jul 04, 2016

Do any of you know what could be ailing my water lilly? The plant is healthy, but the leaves are disintegrating.

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Post #10239917
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altagardener Calgary, AB(Zone 3b) Jul 04, 2016

Perhaps this - China mark moth larvae:
http://www.victoria-adventure.org/waterlilies_images/caterpillars/page1.html

Post #10239988
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kittriana Magnolia, TX(Zone 9a) Jul 05, 2016

Ours disintegrate as they age anyway- the corms of the root are perpetually growing and lengthening as new leaves emerge, and the older leaves age and fall away. Allows room for the new leaves to reach sunlight

Post #10240015
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altagardener Calgary, AB(Zone 3b) Jul 05, 2016

Yes, old leaves sink beneath the surface and start to rot but this appears to be predation by an insect. Purchased waterlilies will sometimes come with pests such as China mark moth - we had it.

Post #10240062
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kittriana Magnolia, TX(Zone 9a) Jul 05, 2016

Chuckl, for every plant, a host of diners!

Post #10240237
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limelightgarden Garden City, ID Jul 06, 2016

I knew someone would have an idea! Thank you so much! Have had this lilly for a long time but this is something new. I will research the china mark moth larvae.

Post #10240448
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