B. Gajendra Babu ¹, P. M. M. David ¹

Affiliations
1 Department of Agricultural Entomology, Agricultural College and Research Institute (TNAU), Killikulam, Vallanad 628 252, Tamil Nadu, IN

Abstract

A simple roping technique that facilitates rapid multiplication of mealybugs even on smooth pumpkins (Cucurbita moschata Poir) devoid of ridges and furrows is described. After 20-40 days of ovisac inoculation, populations of Maconellicoccus hirsutus (Green) were 8-12 times significantly higher on grooveless pumpkins secured vertically across with 4 mm thick ropes at 2-4cm interspacing at the widest girth than that on bare grooveless pumpkins. However, populations increased by only 2-3 times on deep-grooved pumpkins and by 4-5 times on shallow-grooved fruits. Mealybugs were significantly more along 4mm thicker top rope than along 2mm thinner twine running vertically across the fruit surface.

Keywords

Biocontrol, Grooveless Pumpkin, Mealybug Culture, Technique.

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