Vol. 8, Issue 7 (2019)

Author(s):
Fousiya A, N Durgadevi, M Divakar, S Swetha, P Yasodha, C Gailce Leo Justin and P Masilamani

Abstract:
Host preference of an invasive insect pest, Rugose Spiralling Whitefly (RSW), Aleurodicus rugioperculatus was studied in coconut palm (Cocos nucifera) and banana (Musa paradisica) in Tamil Nadu. It is widely seen in Pollachi and Udumalpet blocks of Coimbatore, Pattukottai and Peravoorani blocks of Thanjavur Districts. Maximum adult spiralling whitefly of 60% was recorded in coconut while it was 40%in banana at Pollachi block of Coimbatore District. The natural parasitisation level ranged from 5% to 30% in Tamil Nadu. Maximum the pest was attacked by Encarsia dispersa than Encarsia guadeloupae. Parasitisation level was more in banana plantation than coconut.