Bulbophyllum lobbii: Is this a spike? Pest causing leaf damage?
 

I have a couple questions concerning my B. lobbii 'Kathy's Gold'. This is my one and only Bulbo at the moment.

I purchased this seedling a few years ago, it has gotten larger, but not bloomed so far. Today I noticed this growth (see yellow arrow, photo 1), which is round in cross section, compared to the leafy new growths which are flattened. Is this a spike? Or another new growth that will form another leaf and pseudobulb?

Attachment 114614

Second question, I also noticed today that some pest has been busy on the newer leaves and new shoots. Before whatever it is damages the new growth, I want to treat it. Here are some photos:

Attachment 114615 Attachment 114616

I suspect this is insect damage, rather than snail or slug damage, and also not rodent damage, but I wanted to get a second opinion. If it is an insect, any guess as to what kind? Grasshopper? Cockroach? If this is likely an insect, I will probably treat with Bayer 3-in-1. Any opinions regarding the likely suspects and treatment options will be appreciated.

Yes it is a spike!

It could be either caterpillar or grasshopper. I looked and I don't see any caterpillar poop on the foliage. I don't know what will kill a grasshopper but the Bayer will instantly kill caterpillars. They love to hide in the daylight and eat at night - grrrrrrr.

Brooke

Woo hoo! I was hoping that was a spike. Thanks Brooke.

I'll be moving that plant indoors until I can spray with the 3-in-1 in the morning (chance of rain tonight, don't want it washing off). I was suspecting grasshoppers because I saw a tiny green one on this plant earlier. Unfortunately, he got away.

Hooray a spike !
You don't have to wait for too long. Those lobbii blooms develop quite fast :-)