Epidemic Outbreak of Lac Insect, Kerria lacca (Kerr.) , on Santalum album (Sandal) and its Control

An epidemic outbreak of lac insect Kerria lacca on sandal and its host trees at Gottipura and Nallal in Hoskote range (Karnataka) is reported. It is found that 24.5% of the trees were heavily affected (9.3% of which are dead), 25.5% had medium attack and 50% were completely free. To control the lac infestation, the affected branches were lopped off, burnt and an insecticide viz., Ekalux 20AF 0.5% mixed with 0.05% sticker was sprayed on the tree. The treated trees were watered. This has completely controlled the lac infestation on sandal. A second spray with any insecticides, like Rogor 30 EC, Fenvalerate, Cypermethrin or Dimethoate, may be sprayed after formation of new flush of leaves, to check further secondary infection.