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Volume 27 (1) March 2024 ISSN 0975-1963
Insect Environment
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Insect Science
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An AtmaNirbhar ini a ve by Indian entomologists for promo ng Insect Science
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IE
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Editorial Board
Editor-in-Chief Outreach & Social media
Dr. Abraham Verghese, Former Director, Dr. Rakshitha Mouly, Bangalore University,
ICAR-National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Bengaluru, India
Resources (NBAIR), Bangalore, Dr. Nagalakshmi. G, Soundarya Institute of
Former Principal Scientist & Head Entomology, Management and Science, Bengaluru, India
ICAR-Indian Institute of Horticultural
Research, Bengaluru, Former Chief Editor, Pest Advisory Board (International)
Management in Horticultural Ecosystem,
Chairman, Rashvee- International Phytosanitary Dr. Shoki Al-Dobai, (Ph.D), Team Leader,
Research and Services Pvt Ltd. Bengaluru, India Locusts and Transboundary Plant Pests and
Diseases, Plant Production and Protection
Co-Editor-in-Chief Division (NSP), Food and Agriculture
Dr. Rashmi, M.A, Founder & CEO, Rashvee- Organization of the United Nations, Rome, Italy
International Phytosanitary Research and
Services Pvt Ltd., Bengaluru, India Dr. Jose Romeno Faleiro, Former FAO Expert,
IPM Specialist (Red Palm Weevil), Middle East
Associate Editor and South Asia
Dr. Deepak, S, Plant Protection Officer (Ento.),
Prof. Dr. Abdeljelil Bakri, Former Head of the
Directorate of Plant Protection, Quarantine &
Insect Biological Control Unit at Cadi Ayyad
Storage Faridabad, India University-Marrakech, Morocco. FAO and
Assistant Copy Editor IAEA Consultant, Editor of Fruit Fly News e-
Ms. Salome Ruth Jimmy Vijayaraghavan, newsletter, Canada
Muscat, Oman Dr. Hamadttu Abdel Farag El-Shafie (Ph.D),
Editorial Members Senior Research Entomologist, Head,
Sustainable pest management in date palm
Dr. Devi Thangam. S, Assistant Professor
research program, Date Palm Research Center of
Zoology, MES College, Bengaluru
Excellence (DPRC), King Faisal University,
Dr. Viyolla Pavana Mendonce, Assistant B.O. 55031, Al-Ahsa 31982, Saudi Arabia
Professor Zoology, School of Life Sciences, St.
Dr. Yubak Dhoj G C, Senior Agricultural
Joseph’s College (Autonomous), Bengaluru
Officer (Plant Protection) for FAO, Executive
Dr. M. Jayashankar, Assistant Professor, Secretary, Asia Pacific Plant Protection
Department of Zoology, School of Life Commission Secretariat, Bangkok
Sciences, St. Joseph’s College (Autonomous),
Bengaluru
Vol. 27 (1) (March 2024) Insect Environment
Dr. Carlos A H Flechtmann, Department of Dr. P.V.R Reddy, Chief-Editor of Pest

Plant Protection, FEIS/UNESP, Solteira, Sao Management in Horticultural Ecosystem,
Paula Brazil Principal Scientist, ICAR-Indian Institute of
Horticultural Research, Bengaluru
Dr. Ravindra Chandra Joshi, Senior
Consultant, Philippine Rice Research Institute,
Philippines.
*Cover Page:
Advisory Board (National) Diaphania indica Fam: Crambidae
Dr. B. Vasantharaj David, Trustee, Secretary Photo by Dr. M. A. Rashmi
& Treasurer, Dr. B. Vasantharaj David
Foundation, Chennai, India
Dr. V.V. Ramamurthy, Editorial Advisor,
Indian Journal of Entomology, Former Principal
Scientist & Head Entomology, IARI, Pusa
Campus, New Delhi, India
Rev. Dr. S. Maria Packiam, S.J, Director,
Entomology Research Institute (ERI), Loyola
College, Chennai, India
Dr. S. N. Sushil, Director, ICAR-National
Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources,
Bengaluru, India
Dr. J. P. Singh, Plant Protection Advisor, Govt.
of India, Directorate of Plant Protection,
Quarantine & Storage, Faridabad, India
Dr. Zinabhai Paragji Patel, Vice-Chancellor,

Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari,
Gujarat
Dr Balraj Singh, Vice-Chancellor, SKN
Agriculture University, Jobner-Jaipur
Dr. Baloda, Director, Rajasthan Agricultural
Research Institute, SKNAU, Jobner, Rajasthan
Dr. Som Dutt (Managing Editor, Current
Horticulture) Formerly Editor (Indian Journal of
Agricultural Sciences and Indian Horticulture)
ICAR- DKMA, New Delhi.
2
Insect Environment
(Quarterly journal to popularize insect study and conservation) ISSN
0975-1963
NAAS Rating 3.53
The first issue of Insect Environment was published in 1996. The sole objective of Insect Environment
is to popularize insect study through popular, semi-technical and technical research notes, extension
notes for managing insect pests, photographs, short blogs and essays on all aspects of insects. The
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3
Contents
Volume 27(1) March 2024
1 Editorial
Research Articles
Armyworm population dynamics and damage assessment in rice agro-ecosystems

at Jampuijala, Tripura, India
2
Utpal Dey, Ravindra C. Joshi, Shatabhisa Sarkar, Ph. Ranjit Sharma and A.K.
Mohanty
Record of new pests of curry leaves (Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng.) from
3 Kerala, India
Karthika S., Malini Nilamudeen and Anitha N
First report of the occurrence of red palm weevil, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus

4 (Olivier) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) on banana in Kerala, India
Gargi. C, Ambily Paul, Anitha. N, Manu. C. R., Swapna Alex and Sheena. A
Biology, morphometrics and mating behaviour of reduviid predator, Rhynocoris

5 marginatus (Fab.)
S. S. Rahate and S. M. Wankhede
Seasonal incidence of insect-pests affecting Aonla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.)

6 in relation to abiotic factors
G. K. Rudani and Sushma Deb
Biology and morphometry of curry leaf tortoise beetle, Silana farinosa

(Boheman) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae)- an emerging pest in
7 Kerala
Karthika S. and Malini Nilamudeen
A study on the public awareness and attitude towards weaver ant nests in and
8 around St Joseph’s University Campus, Bengaluru, Karnataka
Abhishek Mishra, Joshua Dhawale and M. Jayashankar
Review articles & Short notes
Artificial Intelligence (AI) in entomology-Indian scenario

9
A. Ankita Rani, Saadia Anjum, Sneha Ann Shibu and M. Jayashankar
4
Climate variables affecting insect pests

10
P. M. Patel and C. B. Varma
First record of leaf-twisting weevil Apoderus tranquebaricus Fab. (Curculionidae:

11 Coleoptera) on Ixora, Ixora coccinea Linn. (Rubiacea) from Tamil Nadu, India
S. Kavimugilan, A. Kalyanasundaram and V. Ambethgar
First report of brown wheat mite, Petrobia sp. on wheat in Gujarat

12
Swati Gamit, C. B. Varma and A. G. Shukla
13 Obituary of Dr G.K Veeresh by Dr T.M. Manjunath
14 Insect Lens
15 IE Extension
5
IE Blog Contents
Sl.
Author/Authors Date Title of the blog
No.
Abraham Verghese Insect Environment Wishes You a Happy

1 31.12.2023
and Rashmi M.A New Year 2024
Abraham Verghese Farm-gate Quarantine (FgQ) for Pest Free

2 07.01.2024
and Rashmi M.A Orchards
Geerthana S and Invasive Rugose Spiraling Whitefly now on

3 14.01.2024
K. Suresh Moringa
Do Egg Parasitoids Control Rice Stem

4 T. M. Manjunath 21.01.2024
Borer?
5 Abraham Verghese 28.01.2024 Helico Conundrum
Abraham Verghese Palm Aphid on Coconut and Ornamental

6 03.02.2024
and Rashmi M.A Palms
Abraham Verghese Caterpillars Sweeping Through Mango

7 11.02.2024
and Rashmi M.A Orchards of South India
Abraham Verghese
8. 18.02.2024 A Startup Shows the Way
and Rashmi M.A
Abraham Verghese
9. 25.02.2024 Agriculture Students to the Fore!
and Rashmi M.A
10. T. M. Manjunath 03.03.2024 Insect Pests have contributed to Careers!
11. Rashmi M.A 10.03.2024 Rural Women Hortipreneurs
N. B. V. Chalapathi Rugose Spiralling Whitefly Spreading to

12. 17.03.2024
Rao, P. V. Raghuteja Ornamental Trees
Are Trichomes Gamechangers in Insect-

13. Rashmi M. A, 24.03.2024
Plant Resistance?
6
Editorial
Need for revamping agricultural scientific meets: less of keynotes and more of
original research
Dubai is always a wonder to me, an ultra-modern “urban

oasis” in the midst of a desert! Yet it has excellent
pavement lawns and blooming flowers all over, constantly
watered by south Asian work-force. So, it was a surprise,
to read Dubai in flood, on 9th March. Small spells of rains
do occur in winter in Dubai, but floods are not the norm-
again characteristic of climate-spike, an aspect I have been
writing in my earlier editorials. But wait! Cloud seeding
has been going on around UAE and this is perhaps a
fallout of that and that is bound to affect desert insect life.
In the last one year, there have been a post-covid boom of several conferences, symposia and
workshops across much of India, that these jaunts seemed more to meet, exchange bonhomie and
perhaps ideate a little. What irked me were the keynote and lead addresses by “agricultural
experts”. In most cases their talks were text bookish or Google-mined and worst non-adherence to
time, thus robbing time slots meant for original research from oral presenters, especially of young
and middle level researchers. In one case, where I chaired, the oral presentations of 20 minutes
were reduced to five minutes each with no discussions! Imagine if a test cricket is squeezed to a
20-20 not even a 50-over one-dayer! Meetings have to be conducted with clear time adherence
maximising original and topical scientific discussions and clearly avoiding wasting time on
felicitations, lighting lamps, unconnected inaugural address, presidential speech, keynotes, lead
speaks, etc. Our scientific deliberations should evolve.
So, it was like a whiff of fresh air when we attended an International Women’s Day function on
10th March, 2024 at Nexus Mall, Whitefield, Bangalore where a dozen women were honoured with
excellence awards (including Dr. M. A. Rashmi, our Editor) The theme was “Clean environment
and healthy residue free food through terrace gardening,” with a panel of four, each strictly
speaking only for 15 minutes. The programme was flashed open- guess how? All panellists and
7
organizers watered a potted plant, in turns with a rose can using minimal water (symbolic of
Bangalore reeling under water crisis!). The meet then was declared open.
There was no waste of time on any other trivialities. No shawls, garlands etc., and the audience of
over 200 were seated in an amphitheatre and business went off well. Organized by the Greenotsav
Forum, Sparsha Foundation, and Nexus Mall, and with Insect Environment Editors as part of the
panel, we felt we need to take a leaf of learning out of their professional conduct of the whole
meeting. Our professional meetings should leave out the stale and staid! If conventions are
excessive, it makes scientific meetings boring and dull.
We thank NAAS for the liberal rating given to us. We will certainly promote insect science among
scholars, students and scientists in our unique, professional and distinctive ways. We promote short
notes, not-so-long reviews and photographs. Every quarter, Insect Environment buzzes on time,
while many “clout” journals are in semi-doped state! Surely our editorial and web-team deserve a
rich commendation. Therefore, I round up with an applause to this team and welcome the new
Editorial Board entrants Dr. J. P. Singh, Dr. Balraj Singh, Dr. Baloda and Dr. Som Dutt.
Dr Abraham Verghese,
Editor-in Chief
8
Research articles
DOI: 10.55278/XNOV5806
Armyworm population dynamics and damage assessment in rice
agroecosystems at Jampuijala, Tripura, India
Utpal Dey1, Ravindra C. Joshi2*, Shatabhisa Sarkar1, Ph. Ranjit Sharma3 and
A.K. Mohanty4
1
Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Sepahijala, Central Agricultural University (Imphal), Tripura, India -
799103
2
Philippine Rice Research Institute, Science City of Muñoz, Nueva Ecija, Philippines- 3119
3
Central Agricultural University, (Imphal), Tripura, India - 795004
4
Indian Council of Agricultural Research - Agricultural Technology Application Research
Institute, Zone VII, Meghalaya, India -793103
*Corresponding author: [email protected]; [email protected]
Abstract
Rice cultivation faces persistent challenges from various insect pests, including invasive
species. The emergence of four armyworm species (rice swarming caterpillar, Spodoptera mauritia
(Boisduval), common cutworm, Spodoptera litura (F.); rice ear-cutting caterpillar/paddy
armyworm, Mythimna separata (Walker); and fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E.
Smith), along with other herbivores, poses significant threats to Asian rice ecosystems, causing
considerable economic losses. This study investigates the occurrence and distribution of these
armyworm species in rice agro-ecosystems across three Village Councils (VCs). Only S. mauritia
larvae were observed, appearing in nursery fields approximately16-27 days after sowing and
displaying sudden mass attacks primarily targeting seedlings at the 1-5 leaf stages. Damage
manifestations included cutting leaf tips, creating shot holes on leaf blades, and occasionally
severing seedlings at the base. The Ranjit variety in Kalaibari VC and the Gomati variety in Killa
Verma VC showed the highest infestation rates (18.0%) and larval populations (1.7 larvae/m2).
These findings offer valuable insights for stakeholders involved in rice cultivation across Asian
rice-producing nations.
Keywords: Oryza sativa, Spodoptera mauritia, Spodoptera frugiperda, Spodoptera litura,

Mythimna separata.
9
Introduction presents a significant risk to rice crops (Valdez

et al., 2023), despite corn being their preferred
The North Eastern Region (NER) of
host plant. To evaluate the damage caused by
India encompasses eight states and covers 26.2
armyworms in rice crops, a survey was carried
million hectares (ha), known for its
out.
biodiversity and natural resources. Tripura, the
third-smallest state in the northeast, lies Materials and Methods
between 22°56' and 24°32' North latitude and
90°09' and 92°02' East longitude. It falls within The study area comprised villages
the Eastern Himalaya Region's agro-climatic within the Jampuijala block, Sepahijala
zone, featuring a warm, humid tropical climate district, Tripura, India, located approximately
with high rainfall. Tripura comprises eight between 23°45' and 23°75' North latitude and
districts - South Tripura, Gomati, Sepahijala, 90°30' and 92°50' East longitude, with a focus
West Tripura, Khowai, Dhalai, Unakoti, and on three Village Councils (VCs): Kalaibari
North Tripura - spanning 1.05 million ha. VC, Killa Verma VC, and Twima VC (Fig. 1).
Rice (Oryza sativa L.) holds paramount A sampling strategy involved

agricultural significance in Tripura, notably in purposefully selecting four farmers from each
the Sepahijala district, where it is cultivated VC, with an additional four farmers chosen
across 2.55 lakh ha and 0.48 lakh ha, randomly, totalling 8 farmers per VC. Data
respectively. Rice cultivation in Tripura is collection included random sampling to assess
characterized by three distinct seasons: kharif armyworm larvae infestation within a one
or aman (June-July to November-December), square meter nursery area in each farmer's
boro or summer rice (November-December to field. Observations were made on damaged
May-June), and aus rice (February-March to plants, and larvae presence near affected plants
July-August). However, rice production faces was noted. Damage extent was evaluated using
challenges from various biotic and abiotic the quadrat (1m x 1m) sampling method,
factors. Among biotic factors, insect pests recording data from three quadrants within
significantly limit yield, with an estimated loss each farmer's field, thus totalling nine
of 27.9% (Mondal et al., 2017). Common quadrants per village.
insect pests affecting rice in Tripura include
Larvae were collected from various
the yellow stem borer, leaf folder, rice hispa,
rice-growing areas using random sampling
and ear head bugs (Bhattacharjee et al., 2019).
techniques and reared in controlled
Invasive armyworms represent a considerable
environments for species identification,
economic threat to cereals, legumes, and
diversity, and proportion determination. The
vegetables on a global scale. For instance, in
the Philippines, the fall armyworm invasion
10
period of study was for a month starting shot holes on the leaf blades (Fig.4). Most of
August 2023. the attacks were concentrated in nursery fields,
consistent with findings reported by Sarma et
Results and Discussion al. (2021). The affected fields exhibited a
distinctive appearance akin to cattle grazing,
A systematic survey across three
indicating extensive damage caused by the S.
village councils (VCs) assessed the population
dynamics of armyworm insect pests, revealing mauritia larvae. Maximum average infestation
and larval population were recorded in
the presence of only the rice swarming
caterpillar, Spodoptera mauritia (Boisduval). Kalaibari VC (17.8% and 1.7 larvae/m²),
closely followed by Killa Verma VC (17.7%
The study found that S. mauritia larvae mass
attacked young seedlings suddenly during the and 1.7 larvae/m²) (Table 2). Previous research
emphasized the peak incidence during the third
1-5 leaf stages and displayed extensive
migration. Survey results confirmed the week of August (Ramaiah et al., 2018), and
sporadic occurrences in India and Asian
presence of S. mauritia larvae in all three
villages (Fig. 1 & Table 1). Symptoms were countries which cause losses intermittently
(Guru et al., 2021). Furthermore, Tanwar et al.
detected in nursery fields between 16-27 days
after sowing (Fig. 2 & Table 1). Various rice (2010) documented occurrences of S. mauritia
in India and other countries. Remarkably,
varieties were susceptible to S. mauritia
infestation (Fig. 1 & Table 1). The larvae during the 2016 kharif season, the
Northeastern region, especially Assam, faced
primarily targeted seedlings, severing them at
the base (Fig. 3), and skeletonizing leaf tips an outbreak of S. mauritia, affecting over
34,650 ha. across 28 districts (Sarma and
along the margins. Additionally, young larvae
were observed feeding on leaf tips and creating Salam, 2018; Banu et al., 2022).
11
Fig. 2. Survey for Armyworms in rice conducted with farmers' participation across various
Village Councils in Sepahijala District, Tripura, India (Photo credits: Dharma Singh
Jamatia, India).
A B
Fig. 3. (A) Larva of S. mauritia, and (B) Feeding behavior observed in rice field (Photo credits:
Utpal Dey, India).
A B
Fig. 4. (A) S. mauritia larvae skeletonizing leaf tips of young rice seedlings, and (B) Young
larvae creating shot holes on rice leaf blades (Photo credits: Utpal Dey, India).
12
Field surveys observed S. mauritia The larvae of S. Mauritia were found in

damaging rice crops, alongside other species Kalaibari VC, Killa Verma VC, and all three
like common cutworm, Spodoptera litura (F.), councils after rains following a dry spell.
rice ear-cutting caterpillar/paddy armyworm, Climate change exacerbates armyworm
Mythimna separata (Walker), and fall outbreaks (Mochida et al., 1987). Warmer
armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. temperatures, especially above 29°C,
Smith), occurring in the same fields, affecting accelerate their growth, while minimum
various crops including corn, rice, sorghum, temperatures over 10°C spur voracious feeding
and sugarcane. Confusion among field workers (Palumbo, 2011; Pogue, 2002). Severe
regarding accurate species identification arises outbreaks often follow dry spells,
due to similarities in both larval and adult concentrating egg-laying moths and providing
stages among different armyworm species. ample food for caterpillars (Goergen et al.,
Hence, there is a need for a concise illustrated 2016). Rainy seasons see peak populations,
guide to help field workers and non-specialists while dry periods promote survival and growth
identify these species accurately based on their (Silvain and TiA-Hing, 1985). Increased
adult, egg, larval, and pupal stages. rainfall fosters infestation (Murua et al.,2006).
Climate change also affects natural pest
control (Thomson et al., 2010; Sikha et al.,
13
2011). Future research should identify specific Report of Outbreaks of the Fall
climate-related risk factors for each species to Armyworm Spodoptera frugiperda (J
develop sustainable management solutions, E Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), a
New Alien Invasive Pest in West and
reducing pesticide reliance.
Central Africa. PLoS ONE 11(10):
e0165632. https://doi.org/10.1371/
Acknowledgements
journal.pone.0165632
The authors thank Dr. Shashank
Guru, P. P. G., Basana, G. G., Adak, T. and
Pathour, Entomologist/Insect Taxonomist at
Rath, P. C. (2021). Swarming
the Division of Entomology, Indian
Caterpillar, Spodoptera Mauritia
Agricultural Research Institute, New Delhi, (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera) A
India, for identifying the armyworm species, resurrecting pest in rice ecosystem.
and Ranee E. Joshi, Graduate Student at the Indian Farming, 71(4): 52-53. DOI:
University of Western Australia, for her https://epubs.icar.org.in/index.php/Ind
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A.A. (2010). Predicting the effects of
MS Received on 15th December, 2023
MS Accepted on 01st March, 2024
16
DOI: 10.55278/GNHR9922
Record of new pests of curry leaves (Murraya koenigii (L.) Spreng.) from
Kerala, India
Karthika S1, Malini Nilamudeen2* and Anitha N3
1,3
Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram – 695522,
Kerala, India
2
RARS, Pattambi, Palakkad-679303, Kerala, India
*Corresponding author: [email protected]
Curry leaf (Murraya koenigii (L.) Kerala that do not have a curry plant. Tara and
Spreng.) is a member of the Rutaceae family, Sharma (2010) from Jammu have reported that
which includes other plants such as citrus and despite being insecticidal in nature, curry
bael. Curry leaf plants are fast-growing shrubs, leaves are attacked by several insect pests,
and due to the classic fragrance of the leaves, which decrease the economic value of the
they are an ineluctable crop in almost every plant. They also observed that the plants are
South Indian homestead. However, the record mostly attacked by insects belonging to the
of pests, which are the major constraint in the order Hemiptera, followed by Lepidoptera and
successful production of curry leaves, is Coleoptera. Despite being the most common
lacking in Kerala, and there are only a few spice ingredient in Kerala’s home gardens,
studies about the same in India as well. there is no information available regarding the
Therefore, a documentation study was pests associated with curry leaf in the region.
undertaken from December 2021–November
A documentation study conducted for
2022 in Kerala which revealed new pests
one year from December 2021-November
attacking curry leaves. This article discusses
2022 in 20 homesteads of Thiruvananthapuram
the description of the pests and their nature of
district (8.5307° N, 77.1025° E) in Kerala
damage and symptoms in curry leaves.
revealed new pests in curry leaves. The nature
Apart from natural forest and of the damage and its symptoms were carefully
homestead gardens, large-scale commercial observed and documented. The collected pests
cultivation of curry leaf is seen in Coimbatore, were preserved in 70% alcohol for
Tiruppur, Selem and Thoothukudi districts of identification. The morphological characters
Tamil Nadu, Sanga Reddy, Medak, Siddipet, of the insects were also noted under ZEISS
Kama Reddy and Nizamabad districts of Stemi 508 stereomicroscope available at the
Telangana and Guntur, Nellore, Anantapur and Department of Agricultural Entomology,
Krishna districts of Andhra Pradesh (Mohan, College of Agriculture, Vellayani. The pests
2012). There are very few homesteads in recorded are documented below:
17
Black looper Hyposidra talaca (Walker) Tortoise beetle Cassida exilis Boheman
(Lepidoptera: Geometridae) (Lepidoptera: Chrysomelidae)
The caterpillar was initially black in The adults were convex, metallic
colour with rings of white spots (Fig. 1a). Later yellow-coloured beetles (Fig. 1c). Host plant
instars developed in size and turned plain records for C. exilis are Amaranthus viridis,
brown in colour. This pest is reported to feed Celosia cristata, Digera muricata, Zizyphus
on several plants like Ixora sp. (Majumder and jujuba (Sultan et al., 2008) and kinnow
Ghosh, 2004), Ipomoea batatas, Persia mandarin (Singh and Sharma, 2014). The
americana (French, 2006) and Glycine hispida beetles scrapped from the lower surface of the
(Goyal, 2011) apart from M. koenigii. Early leaves linearly and caused mine-like pattern in
instars nibbled the tender leaves, at the leaf tips the leaves. Attacked leaves were easily
and made pin holes on the leaves. Later instars recognizable because of this typical feeding
were voracious feeders and preferred matured symptom.
leaves. Their population was however very
scanty in the plants. Ash weevil Myllocerus brevirostris Marshall
(Coleoptera: Curculionidae)
Hairy caterpillar Olene mendosa Hübner Adult weevil was light greyish to white
(Lepidoptera: Erebidae) with two black spots on the elytral covers
The caterpillar was hairy and greyish (Figure 1d). They fed on the leaves and
brown with a crimson-red head with reddish resulted in the notching of leaf margins.
stripes. It also had four white tussocks on the
dorsal side of the first four abdominal Scale insects: Lesser snow scale insect
segments and a black hair pencil on the tail Pinnaspis strachani (Cooley) (Hemiptera:
(Fig. 1b). Attacked plants included citrus Diaspididae) and Giant scale insect Icerya
(Nagalingam and Savithri, 1980), Cedrus aegyptiaca (Douglas) (Hemiptera:
deodara (Kalia et al., 2002), cinnamon Monophlebidae)
(Rajapakse and Wasantha Kumara, 2007), Males of P. strachani were snow white
cauliflower, potato (Chandel et al., 2011), and were commonly known as lesser snow
Flemingia semialata (Meena et al., 2014), scale. They were white, long, and slender, and
pigeon pea (Nair et al., 2017) and many other had armor. The armor had three longitudinal
plant species apart from curry leaves. ridges; one prominent center ridge and two
Caterpillars were severe defoliators and marginal ridges (Fig. 1e). The females had no
actively fed on the leaves of the curry plant wings, legs, or eyes, and had an oval-shaped,
resulting in characteristic geometric cuts on the yellowish, and flat body. It is reported to attack
leaves. on plants such as hibiscus, tamarind, citrus,
18
black pepper, arecanut, olives (Miller and yellow to green in colour. Nymphs and adults
Davidson 2005), neem (de Castro et al., 2020) were mainly found on the tender plant parts,
and a variety of wild plants. sucking sap (Fig. 1h).
Adults of I. aegyptiaca were orange- Unidentified pests

red and covered with white wax. They are Bagworms (Lepidoptera: Psychidae)
commonly known as giant scales (Figure 1f).
Bagworms were seen attached to the
Other hosts include Persea americana, Musa
stems or leaves of the plants. They extended
sp., Citrus spp., Coccos nucifera, Pyrus
their head and thorax from their case to devour
communis, Ficus spp., Psidium guajava, Zea
the leaves of the curry plant. On even slight
mays, Mangifera indica, Morus alba, and Vitis
disturbance, they withdrew the body parts into
vinifera (Bragard et al., 2023).
the case and stopped any movement (Fig. 1i).
Numerous scale insects were seen
Slug Caterpillar (Lepidoptera:
colonizing the stem and under the surface of
Limacodidae)
the leaves of curry plants, feeding on plant
juices. Mostly plants in the seedling stage were Larvae were slug-like, with stinging
attacked by these pests. Severe attacks resulted hairs all over their body. They actively fed on
in reduced vigour and the death of seedlings. the leaves (Fig. 1j).
Whitefly Aleuroclava complex Singh Cowbug (Hemiptera: Membracidae)

(Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) Adults were seen on tender stems of the
The adults were minute whiteflies that plant, sucking sap (Fig. 1k).
were seen on the ventral surface of curry leaves
(Fig.1g). The nymphs were yellowish in colour Planthopper (Hemiptera: Flattidae)
which were also present on the lower surface Nymphs and adults of hoppers were
of leaves. The infested leaves became yellow seen distributed on the tender parts of the curry
and eventually turned black due to the plant, sucking sap (Fig. 1l).
development of sooty mould. This resulted in
reduced photosynthesis and vigour of the plant. The present study discovered eleven
new pests associated with the curry leaf
Leafhopper Empoasca sp. (Hemipetra: ecosystem from Kerala, India. Out of them, six
Cicadellidae) were defoliators and rest were sucking pests.
Adults were homogenously green in This is the first attempt at a consolidated
colour with black eyes. The wings were documentation study of curry leaf pests from
hyaline and yellowish-green. Legs were pale Kerala. As the curry leaf is emerging as a
19
prominent export commodity in India, further

studies should be carried out to identify pests
that pose a threat to its successful cultivation.
Table 1: New pests attacking Murraya koenigii documented from Kerala, India
Sl. Common Nature of

Scientific name Order: Family
No. name damage
1. Black looper Hyposidra talaca (Walker) Lepidoptera: Geometridae Defoliator
Hairy
2. Olene mendosa Hübner Lepidoptera: Erebidae Defoliator
caterpillar
Lepidoptera:
3. Tortoise beetle Cassida exilis Boheman Defoliator
Chrysomelidae
Myllocerus brevirostris
4. Ash weevil Coleoptera: Curculionidae Defoliator
Marshall
Pinnaspis strachani (Cooley) Hemiptera: Diaspididae

5. Scale insects Sap feeder
Hemiptera:
Icerya aegyptiaca (Douglas)
Monophlebidae
6. Whitefly Aleuroclava complex Singh Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae Sap feeder
7. Leafhopper Empoasca sp. Hemiptera: Cicadellidae Sap feeder
8. Bagworms Unidentified Lepidoptera: Psychidae Defoliator
9. Slug caterpillar Unidentified Lepidoptera: Limacodidae Defoliator
10. Cow bug Unidentified Hemiptera: Membracidae Sap feeder
11. Planthopper Unidentified Hemiptera: Flattidae Sap feeder
20
a. Hyposidra talaca b. Olene mendosa c. Cassida exilis
d. Myllocerus brevirostris e. Pinnaspis strachani f. Icerya aegyptiaca
g. Aleuroclava complex h. Empoasca sp. i. Bagworm
j. Slug caterpillar k. Cowbug l. Planthopper
Fig. 1a to 1l. New pests documented from curry leaf
21
Acknowledgments Goyal T. 2011. Taxonomic studies on family

Geometridae (Lepidoptera) from
The authors are thankful to all the Western Ghats of India.
taxonomists for helping in the identification of Available at: http://shodhganga.
the insect specimens. The authors are also inflibnet.ac.in/handle/10603/2894
grateful to the Dean, College of Agriculture, (Accessed on 5th December 2022).
Vellayani, Kerala Agricultural University, for
Kalia, S., Singh, C. and Pandey, V.P. 2002.
providing the necessary grant and facilities for
Dasychira mendosa (Hubner)
the research work. (Lepidoptera: Lymantriidae) - a report
of new pest on Cedrus deodara (Roxb.)
References in Himachal Pradesh. The Indian
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and shrubs (Hemiptera: Diaspididae),
(Cooley) (Hemiptera: Diaspididae)
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indica A. Juss., Meliaceae) in Bahia,
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French, B. R. 2006. Insect pests of food plants citrus in Andhra Pradesh
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22
Nair, N., Shah, S.K., Thangjam, B., Debnath, kinnow mandarin in India. Pest
M.R., Das, P., Dey, B., Awasthi, D. and Management in Horticultural
Hazari, S. 2017. Insect pest complex of Ecosystems 20(1): 89-91.
Pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan) in agro
ecosystem of Tripura, NE India. Sultan, A., Borowiec, L., Rafi, A., Ilyas, M.,
Journal of Entomology and Zoology Naz, F. and Shehzad, A. 2008. Tortoise
Studies, 5(4): 765-771. beetles of Rawalpindi- Islamabad,
Pakistan and their host preferences
Rajapakse and Wasantha Kumara, K.L. 2007. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae:
A review of identification and Cassidinae). Genus, 19(1): 93-102.
management of pests and diseases of
cinnamon (Cinnamomum zeylanicum Tara, J.S. and Sharma, M. 2010. Survey of
Blume). Tropical Agricultural insect pest diversity on economically
Research and Extension, 10: 1-10. important plant, Murraya koenigii (L.)
Sprengel in Jammu, J&K. Journal of
Singh, S. and Sharma, D.R., 2014. Infestation Entomological Research, 34(3): 265-
of tortoise beetle, Cassida exilis 270.
Boheman (Coleoptera: Cassidinae) on
MS Received on 10th January, 2024

MS Accepted on 11stMarch, 2024
23
DOI: 10.55278/QUOA6097
First report of the occurrence of red palm weevil, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus
(Olivier) (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) on banana in Kerala, India
Gargi. C1*, Ambily Paul1, Anitha. N1, Manu. C. R.1, Swapna Alex2 and Sheena. A3
1
Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram,
Kerala, 695522, India.
2
Department of Plant Biotechnology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram,
3
Instructional Farm (Horticulture), College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram,
The red palm weevil (RPW), (Cosmopoloitus sordidus Germar), and banana
Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (Olivier) aphid (Pentalonia nigronervosa Coquerel)
(Coleoptera: Curculionidae) originated in (Krishnanet al., 2020). A major pest of
South Asia. It is a devastating pest of over 26 coconut, Oryctes rhinoceros Linnaeus also
palm species and was initially reported as the attacks banana plants of various stages, in the
pest of coconut (Cocos nucifera L.) (Dembilio state (Sivakumar and Mohan, 2013). Invasion
and Jaques, 2012). Recently, an RPW attack on of red palm weevil to the new feeding niche
the banana cultivar ‘Asomiya Malbhog’ was will severely impair crop production.
reported in Assam in India (Kalita et al., 2023).
Now, for the first time in Kerala, the Incidence of RPW on banana cultivar
occurrence of RPW on banana cultivar ‘Nendran’ in a banana plantation (10.517303°
‘Nendran’ from Thrissur district in Kerala, N, 76.255684°E) in Krishnapuram village,
India has been observed. This sign of Thrissur district, Kerala was recorded as a part
expanding host range requires special focus to of a survey documenting pests of banana. This
prevent further spread of the pest. banana plantation has coconut plantations in its
vicinity and the RPW infestation on banana
In Kerala, banana is grown extensively plants is suspected to have spread from
in an area of 57695 ha with a production of infested coconut palms. Both the adults and
544189 tonnes contributing considerably to the grubs of RPW were collected from severely
state’s economy (GOK, 2023). A few common infested plants. Taxonomic identification of
insect pests of bananas are the banana adults was done following the key of
pseudostem weevil (Odoiporus longicollis Wattanapongsiri (1966). RPW infestation in
Olivier), banana rhizome weevil the field was around 2% and the dominant pest
24
seen in the field was banana pseudostem from the inside. This causes yellowing and
weevil (BPW). But the chances are high for the withering of leaves and immature fruit
displacement of BPW by RPW in the long run. ripening. In advanced stages of attack, the
pseudostem breaks at the apical region.
Characteristic medium-sized holes and Fermented odour emanates from infested
gummy exudation are the major symptoms of plants. Adult RPW also feed on banana
RPW attack on bananas. Voracious feeding of pseudostem.
RPW grubs hollows out banana pseudostems
Fig. 1. a, b, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus grub and weevil feeding on banana pseudostem;

c, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus pupation on banana pseudostem
Fig. 2. Severe infestation of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus on banana
25
This is the first report of RPW Kerala 2023.Statistical Wing,

infestation on bananas in Kerala. Surveys must Directorate of Agriculture
be conducted in different banana growing belts Development and Farmer’s Welfare,
Government of Kerala. 64-65.
of the state to study the extent of invasion of
the pest on bananas. Early pest detection is Krishnan, J.U., Jayaprakas, C.A., Harish, E.R.
inevitable for successful pest management. and Rajeswari, L.S. 2020. Banana
Integrated pest management operations with a (Musa spp.)-an unseen umbrella crop?
specific emphasis on environment-friendly Insect diversity on Musa spp. in the
strategies are advisable for RPW management Indo-Pacificregion. Oriental
in bananas. Intensive research is needed to Insects, .54(3):433-445.
study the biology, population dynamics, nature
Sivakumar, T. and Mohan, C., Occurrence of
of damage, extent of infestation, and effective rhinoceros beetle, Oryctes rhinoceros
management strategies in bananas. (L.), on banana cultivars in Kerala. Pest
Management in Horticultural
Reference Ecosystems, 2013,19(1): 99-101.
Dembilio, Ó. and Jaques, J.A. 2012. Bio- Josephrajkumar, A., Prathibha, P.S., Babu, M.,
ecology and integrated management of Mohan, C., Hedge, V. and
the red palm weevil, Rhynchophorus Krishnakumar, V. 2017. Red Palm
ferrugineus (Coleoptera: Weevil in Coconut Knack to Crack
Curculionidae), in the region of Trajectory. Consortium Research
Valencia (Spain). Hellenic Plant Platform on Borers in Network Mode,
Protection Journal, 5: 1-12. ICAR-Central Plantation Crops
Research Institute, Kasaragod–
Kalita, B., Bhattacharyya, B., Das, P.P.G.,
671, 124.
Gogoi, I., Hazarika, J. and Borkataki,
S. 2023. First report of red palm Wattanapongsiri, A. 1966.A revision of the
weevil, Rhynchophorusferrugineus on genera Rhynchophorus and Dynamis
banana cultivar ‘AsomiyaMalbhog’ in (Coleoptera: Curculionidae).
Assam, India. Pest Management in Department of Agriculture Science
Horticultural Ecosystems, 29(1), 166- Bulletin. Bangkok, Department of
168. Agriculture Science. 418p.
GOK [Government of Kerala]. 2023. A

compendium of agricultural statistics:
MS Accepted on 01stMarch, 2024
26
DOI: 10.55278/QFJO9320
Biology, morphometrics and mating behaviour of reduviid predator,
Rhynocoris marginatus (Fab.)
SS Rahate1*, SM Wankhede2
1
Department of Agril. Entomology, Dr. BSKKV, Dapoli, India- 415712
2
RCRS, Bhatye, Dr. BSKKV, Dapoli, India- 415612
Abstract:
A biology study of Rhynocoris marginatus revealed that eggs of this species had a length
of 2.65mm and breadth of 0.72mm, incubated for 8.07 days with an average 89% hatching rate.
Average durations of first to fifth nymphal instars were 9.3, 9.5, 8.25, 11.4 and 19.45 days,
respectively. The size of nymphs increased with successive nymphal instars with the first instar of
2.02 mm in length and the fifth instar being 9.4 mm in length. The average nymphal developmental
period was 57.9±2.5 days. Female adults were easily distinguishable due to their broader size
measuring a length of 15.2 mm and abdominal width of 5.92 mm, while male adults measured
12.3 mm in length and 4.2 mm in abdominal width. The sex ratio was female-biased (0.89:1). Pre-
oviposition, oviposition and post-oviposition period lasted for 12.9, 44.6 and 5.6 days,
respectively. Fecundity was 279±48.2 with an average of 45.5 eggs per batch. Female adults
survived (63.1 days) more than males (42.1 days). Total generation time was found longer in
females (129.3 days) than in males (108.8 days).
Keywords: Reduviid bug, Morphometrics, Rhynocoris marginatus,
Introduction: ecord of morphometrics can be helpful for

farmers and researchers to recognise random
In India, the reduviid bug, Rhynocoris
specimens of this species (Srikumar et. al,
marginatus (Fab.) (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) is
2014). Therefore, this present investigation
a predator of a wide host range, with higher
was carried out to study biology,
feeding potential and high longevity, which
morphometrics and mating behaviour of R.
makes it an active biological control agent
marginatus.
(Sahayaraj, 2014; Rahate et al., 2023).
Interestingly, reduviid bugs are famous for Materials and methods:
killing more prey than they need to satiate their
life; therefore, they are counted as superior The primary culture of R. marginatus
natural enemies (Sahayaraj, 2014). A detailedr was obtained from the Regional Coconut
Research Station, Bhatye, Ratnagiri,
27
Maharashtra (16.9714ON, 73.2987OE). The was 0.67 to 0.81 mm. Eggs hatched after 8.07
nymphs were maintained in the laboratory and ± 0.08 days. The actual process of hatching
fed with the larvae of a factitious host, Corcyra was 2-3 hours from the opening of the
cephalonica (Sahayaraj and Sathiamoorthi, operculum to the complete emergence of
2002). Fresh-laid egg masses were collected neonate nymph. Intermittent hatching with 70
and used for further study of biology at 25 ± to 100% success was recorded. Similar
30C room temperature and 85±3% RH. During observations were recorded by Pravalika
this study, various biological parameters were (2015) and Femi Mohasina (2017).
recorded. The mating behaviour of virgin
males and female adults was documented by Nymphal developmental period and
maintaining ten separate pairs in separate petri Morphometrics
dishes provided with host larvae and optimum Nymphal developmental period is explained in
humidity (Sahayaraj, 2001; Sahayaraj, 2002). Table 1. The neonate nymphs (Instar I) of pale
Morphometrics were recorded using a ‘Dino- orange colour were congregated on egg mass
lite digital microscope’. itself for two to five hours. They avoid
excessive movements of the body and change
Results and Discussion: into reddish orange with a prominent oval
Morphometrics and egg hatching black spot on the dorsal surface of the
abdomen (Fig 1). Generally, 3 to 4 nymphs
The eggs of R. marginatus were initially feed on a single larva of the host. The second
yellowish brown, elongated, curved to some instar nymph was bright orange with dark
extent, and cylindrical in shape with a slightly black legs. The anterior pronotal lobe was
broader posterior end and narrower anterior more prominently bulged than the first instar.
end. Each egg had a white coloured bottle cap- The dorsal side of the abdomen was covered by
like operculum on the anterior end. The eggs a black oval spot. Moreover, the posterior end
were found to change with progression into a was black in colour. The third instar nymph
reddish colour. The growth of the embryo was darker than earlier instars with elongated
inside the egg was evidently noticed due to the black band on both lateral sides of the
changing colour of the egg and a prominent abdomen. The pleural edges of the abdomen
blackish eye spot of developing nymph were slightly tilted upward. Fourth instar
through transparent chorion. Further, the eggs nymphs were dark orange in colour having
observed were slightly shrivelled at the middle reddish orange thorax and black coloured wing
portion on the day of hatching. The length of pads. Black oval abdominal spots enlarged
the eggs was 2.45 to 2.87 mm and the breadth progressively with their growth.
28
Fig. 1: First instar nymph Fig. 2: Fifth instar nymph
Fig. 3: Freshly emerged adult Fig. 4: Egg laying
Fig. 5: Mating
29
The fifth instar nymph was significantly Morphometrics of adults and longevity:
reddish than earlier instars with a bulged Soon after moulting, adults were bright orange
anterior pronotal lobe and progressively in colour with black abdomen. Their body
developed black coloured wing pads on the colour turned, after 5 to 7 hours, into dark
pterothorax. The black oval spot covered black, except for the pronotum and scutellum
almost the whole abdomen except the border which became bright red (Fig 3). Male and
area. Further, upward tilted pleural margins of female were easily distinguishable, as the
the abdomen were dissolved and the abdomen female was found to be broader in size than the
took an oval shape (Fig 2). The size of the male. Our findings are per George (1999) who
abdomen was normal at the beginning of this observed the average adult longevity of
instar but it started increasing with successive 65.29±11.04 days.
feeding and was tapering toward the posterior
end. The size of the abdomen was found to be Sex ratio: Sex ratio was worked out by
larger in the nymphs which turned into female examining 100 newly emerged adults, out of
adults. Similar trends were recorded by Femi which average 47 were males and 53 were
Mohasina (2017) with the average nymphal females with the male-to-female sex ratio
developmental period which was 32.96±1.91 indicating the predominance of females in the
days, when R. margnatus was reared on S. population (0.89:1), similar to Pravalika
litura. Morphological differences were in (2015), who recorded sex ratio of 0.8:1.
confirmation with the findings of Petchidurai
et al. (2000).
Table 1: Morphometrics of reduviid bug, Rhynocoris marginatus (Fab.)

Abdomen Longevity of
Body length Head length Thorax length
Stage nymphs/adults
(mm) (mm) (mm) length (mm) breadth (mm)
(days)
2.02±0.09 0.46±0.05 0.34±0.03 1.21±0.07 0.49±0.02 9.3±0.64
I instar
(1.86-2.14)* (0.39-0.54) (0.29-0.40) (1.12-1.32) (0.45-0.51) (8 - 11)
II 3.68±0.17 0.84±0.11 0.63±0.06 2.21±0.11 1.35±0.29 9.5±1.07
instar (3.46-3.94) (0.71-1.02) (0.56-0.75) (1.96-2.33) (1.06-0.91) (8 – 12)
III 5.41±0.44 1.24±0.15 0.92±0.09 3.25±0.34 1.76±0.12 8.25±1.18
instar (4.71-5.98) (0.99-1.54) (0.74-1.04) (2.73-3.75) (1.56-1.98) (7 – 11)
IV 8.05±0.68 1.84±0.23 1.38±0.17 4.83±0.48 2.56±0.28 11.4±1.93
instar (6.97-8.82) (1.48-2.16) (1.12-1.69) (4.04-5.51) (2.24-3.13) (8 – 15)
V 9.47±0.46 2.17±0.30 1.62±0.15 5.68±0.31 4.37±0.77 19.45±2.29
instar (8.71-10.18) (1.83-2.58) (1.45-1.95) (5.09-6.06) (3.46-5.69) (15 - 23)
Adult 12.34±0.89 2.23±0.50 3.47±0.50 6.64±0.52 4.23±0.71 42.8±6.73
male (10.95-13.62) (1.86-2.66) (2.85-4.47) (5.76-7.3) (3.16-5.47) (34 – 52)
Adult 15.22±1.20 2.67±0.29 3.99±0.46 8.57±0.75 5.92±0.78 63.1±9.56
female (13.80-16.78) (2.21-3.11) (3.31-4.8) (7.39-9.77) (4.19-6.84) (48 – 79)
*Range
30
Pre-oviposition, oviposition and post- Fecundity: Female laid eggs in batches,

oviposition period: The pre-oviposition, preferably on rough substrate. Eggs were glued
oviposition and post-oviposition period was to the substrate basally as well as to each other
presented in Table 2. Pre-oviposition period (Fig 4). The numbers of eggs laid in each batch
lasted for 9 to 17 days (Average of 12.9 ± 3.14 by a female were more or less similar in
days). Females were observed to lay eggs for number. Similar fecundity was noted by
33 to 54 days (Average 44.6 ± 6.31 days). Pravalika (2015) (380±11.92 eggs) and Femi
Female adults died within 2 to 9 days (average Mohasina (2017) (377.2 ± 45.52 with 44.33 ±
5.6 ± 2.12 days) after cessation of egg laying. 4.57 eggs per batch).
These observations conform with the findings
of Pravalika (2015), who reported a pre- Life cycle: Precipitates of observations on life
oviposition period of 18.8 ± 0.37 days and an cycle of R. marginatus are presented in Table
oviposition period of 58.5 ± 2.5 days. 2, which clearly indicates the multivoltine
nature of R. marginatus, as discussed by
Sahayaraj (2004) in his study.
Table 2: Life cycle of reduviid bug, Rhynocoris marginatus (Fab.)
Parameter Range Average
Incubation period (days) 8 - 8.2 8.07 ± 0.08
Hatching percentage 70 - 100 89 ± 9.94
Life cycle (egg to adult emergence) (days) 62 - 70 57.9 ± 2.59
Generation time – Male (days) 98 - 121 108.8 ± 8.77
Generation time – Male (days) 116 - 146 129.3 ± 9.96
Sex ratio (M:F) - 0.89:1
Pre-oviposition period (days) 9 - 17 12.9 ± 3.14
Oviposition period (days) 33 - 54 44.6 ± 6.31
Post-oviposition period (days) 2-9 5.6 ± 2.12
Total no. of eggs batches/female 5-8 6.3 ± 1.06
Average no. of eggs per batch 27.63 - 64 45.54 ± 11.56
Total fecundity (days) 215 - 354 279 ± 48.2
31
Mating behaviour: All the mating adults were natural enemies. Therefore, conservation and
observed to follow same sequential act of augmentation of this predator in the field can
mating. Male and female adults started be helpful to protect the crop from different
walking around the arena just after they got kinds of pests for a long time.
introduced to each other. The approach was
first done by males by extending the antennae References
followed by a significant extension of the Ambrose, D.P. and Livingstone, D. (1983).
rostrum than that observed during predation. Mating behaviour of two assassin bugs-
Then the female became less active in Rhynocoris marginatus (Fabr.)
submitting herself for the act of mating and the (Harpactorinae) and Catamiarus
male began touching her antennae. Excited brevipennis Serv. (Piratinae)
movements of male like riding over position (Heteroptera: Reduviidae). Proc.
Indian Academic Sci. (Animal Sci.),
were followed by antennal extension of both.
93(6): 505-510.
Particularly, the male was using its extended
rostrum for pressing thorax of female from Femi Mohasina (2017). Biology and predatory
upper side. Further, the male held dorsolateral potential of Rhynocoris marginatus
position with the female for copulation. (Fab.) (Hemiptera: Reduviidae) on
Female was gripped using fore and hind pair of insect pests of cowpea. M.Sc. (Ag.)
legs by male and she became motionless. Male thesis, Kerala Agriculture University,
Thrissur.
started copulation using aedeagus at female
genitalia after having proper grip (Fig 5). Petchidurai, G., Chitra, R and Sahayaraj K.,
Sometimes female walked around with the 2019. Polymorphism of Rhynocoris
male on her body during copulation. Antennae marginatus (Fab.) (Heteroptera:
of both were found dropped down at end of Reduviidae) on the biology, biological
copulation. Post-copulatory cannibalism was control potential. Journal of
not observed in any case. Both the partners Biopesticides.12(1): 114-125.
move away from each other after completion
Pravalika, K. (2015). Studies on biology,
of mating process. These observations are in predator-prey interaction, predatory
conformity with the records on mating efficacy of Rhynocoris marginatus
behaviour by Ambrose and Livingstone Fabricius (Hemiptera: Reduviidae).
(1983). M.Sc. (Ag.) thesis, College of
Agriculture, Professor Jayashankar
Conclusions Telangana State Agricultual
University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad.
The present study suggests that the life
cycle of the reduviid predator can survive for a Rahate S. S., Wankhede S. M., Mehendale S.
comparatively longer duration than many other K. and Rajemahadik V. A. (2023).
32
Predatory potential of Reduviid bug, Sahayaraj, K. and Sathiamoorthi, P. (2002).

Rhynocoris marginatus (Fab.) against Influenece of different diets of Corcyra
fruit borers of Tomato. Journal of Eco- cephalonica on life history of a
friendly Agriculture, 18(1): 140-143. reduviid predator Rhynocoris
marginates (Fab.). Journal of Central
Sahayaraj, K. (2001). A qualitative study of European Agriculture, 3(1): 53-61.
food consumption, growth and
fecundity of a reduviid predator in Srikumar, K.K., Bhat, P.S., Raviprasad, T.N.
relation to prey density. Entomologia and Vanitha, K. (2014). Biology,
Croatica. 5(1): 19- 30. behaviour and functional response of
Cydnocoris gilvis Brum. (Heteroptera:
Sahayaraj, K. (2002). Small scale laboratory Reduviidae: Harpactorinae) A predator
rearing of a reduviid predator, of tea mosquito bug (Heliopeltis
Rhynocoris marginatus Fab. antonii Sign.) on cashew in India.
(Hemiptera: Reduviidae) on Corcyra Journal of Threatened Taxa, 6(6):
cephalonica Stainton larvae by larval 5864-5870.
card method. Journal of Central
European Agriculture, 3: 137-147.
MS Accepted on 10th March, 2024
33
DOI: 10.55278/ESLP9269
Seasonal incidence of insect-pests affecting Aonla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.)
in relation to abiotic factors
G. K. Rudani* and Sushma Deb
Department of Entomology, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University,
Sardarkrushinagar, Dantiwada, Gujarat, India- 385506.
Abstract
The observations were recorded at Sardarkrushinagar, Gujarat during 2021 at fortnightly

intervals in field from 1st Standard Meteorological Week (SMW) to 52nd SMW. The damage due
to Betousa stylophora Swinhoe ranged between 0.80 and 48.8 percent with its peak (48.8% twig
damage) in the 35th SMW, while the leaflet damage due to leaf rolling caterpillar ranged between
0.11 and 12.48 percent and exhibited its peak (12.48%) during the 31st SMW. In the case of bark
eating caterpillar, the infestation ranged between 2.00 and 10.00 percent branch damage and
reached its peak level (10.00%) during 26th SMW. Commencement of aphid appearance was
recorded from 15th SMW with 0.02 aphid index, which reached its first peak (2.78 index) during
24thSMW and second peak (1.12 index) during 31st SMW. Physical factors viz. minimum
temperature (MinT), morning relative humidity (RH1), evening relative humidity (RH2), rainfall
(RF) and bright sunshine (BSS) established significant correlation with ‘r’ value of 0.521**,
0.578**, 0.887**, 0.605** and -0.665**, respectively with gall forming black caterpillar. The
infestation of leaf rolling caterpillar established significant correlation with MinT (r= 0.592**),
RH1 (r= 0.636**), RH2 (r= 0.883**), wind speed (WS) (r= 0.395**), RF (r= 0.521**) and BSS
(r= -0.770**). The activity of bark eating caterpillar established significant positive correlation
with physical factors viz., MinT (r= 0.436*), RH2 (r= 0.404*) and WS (r= 0.663**) whereas, aphid
showed positive association with MinT (r= 0.588*), RH1 (r= 0.424*), RH2 (r= 0.385*) and WS
(r= 0.824**).
Key words- Aonla, Betousa stylophora,Cerciaphis emblica,Gracillaria acidula, Inderbela

tetraonis,, Insects, Seasonal incidence
Introduction known as Aonla or Emblica officinalis. It is a

deciduous tree of average height. In tanning
An essential crop for India's
and dyeing, the fruit, bark, and leaves are
horticulture is the Indian Gooseberry, also
34
employed. It is one of the richest natural free from the application of any insecticides
sources of vitamin C, (Ascorbic acid) which throughout the study period. Five trees were
has sparked a lot of curiosity among scientists. randomly selected and tagged. Observations
The fruits can also be used to make pickles, on major insect pests were recorded at
marmalade, jam, and sauces(Shrivastava, fortnightly intervals.
1990). Despite being regarded as a hardy fruit
crop, not less than 30 insect and mite species Observations on infestation due to
from various locations, especially from India apical twig gall maker, number of healthy and
(Lakra, 1996) affect this crop. Among the damaged twigs were recorded from twenty-
insect pests, the aonla shoot gall maker five randomly selected twigs and percent twig
(Betousa stylophora), leaf rolling caterpillar damage was calculated. Damage due to leaf
(Gacillaria acidula), bark eating caterpillar roller was recorded by counting total number
(Inderbela quardinatata), fruit borer of healthy and damaged leaflets from 10 cm
(Dueodorix isocrates), fruit moth (Otheris length of ten compound leaves in each selected
fullonica), aphid (Cerciaphis emblica) and tree. Infestation due to bark and shoot borer
mealybug have been reported to be of major was recorded by observing ten randomly
importance (Chadha, 2003). Farmers in selected branches of the tagged trees. The
Gujarat are struggling with insect problems as activity of aphids was recorded by using the 0
the area under aonla cultivation has grown over to 9 index given by Bharpoda et al. 2009.
the years. Since the prevailing environmental
Where,
conditions, such as temperature, relative
humidity, and precipitation, have a significant 0 = no aphid population,
impact on the occurrence and development of 1 = colony formed up to 1 cm length,
all insect pests. The present investigation is to 2= colony formed up to 2 cm length,
generate baseline data and fill the existing
3 = colony formed up to 3 cm length,
information gaps.
4 = colony formed up to 4 cm length,
Material and Methods 5= colony formed up to 5 cm length,
The observations were carried out at 6 = colony formed up to 6 cm length,

the Horticultural Instructional Farm, C. P. 7 = colony formed up to 7 cm length,
College of Agriculture, S. D. Agricultural 8 = colony formed up to 8 cm length,
University (24.327160, 72.305093),
9 = colony covered entire 10 cm length of
Sardarkrushinagar on aonla variety NA 7 in the
terminal shoot/twig.
year 2021. A 60 m × 30 m section with 6 m ×
6 m spacing was chosen for the experiment
from the entire orchard. The trees were kept
35
The data, were correlated with the Infestation due to leaf rolling
weather parameters viz., daily rainfall (mm), caterpillar, G. acidulaon aonla revealed that
minimum and maximum temperatures (ºC), the damage commenced from 1st SMW which
evaporation (mm), morning and evening recorded 0.63 percent leaflet damage due to
relative humidity (%), bright sunshine (hr/day) leaf rolling caterpillar (Table 1 and Fig. 1). The
and wind speed (km/hr) were collected from infestation gradually decreased (0.11 % leaflet
the Department of Agricultural meteorology, damage) during 7th SMW. There was no
C.P. College of Agriculture, SDAU, infestation due to leaf rolling caterpillar
Sardarkrushinagar and fortnightly values were observed during 9th SMW to 18th SMW. The
computed. population gradually increased due to G.
acidula from 20th SMW to 35th SMW, it ranged
Results and Discussion from 2.25 to 12.48 percent leaflet damage.
1. Population dynamics Thereafter, the population started to decrease
gradually after the 37th SMW to 50th SMW, it
The results on the occurrence of gall ranged from 0.32 to 6.47 percent leaflet
forming black caterpillar, B. stylophoraon damage. Thus, the average damage percent due
aonla are presented in Table 1 and depicted in to leaf roller was 2.98 percent leaflet damage
Fig. 1 revealing that the damage commenced and higher activity of the pest was observed
from 1st Standard Meteorological Week during 28th SMW (9.61 %) to 31st SMW (12.48
(SMW) which recorded 2.4 percent twig %) during the crop period.
damage due to gall forming black caterpillar.
The infestation gradually decreased (0.8 % Infestation of bark eating caterpillars
twig damage) during 5th SMW. No gall was observed throughout the year, which
formation due to gall forming black caterpillar ranged from 2.00 to 10.00 percent branch
was observed during 7th SMW to 18th SMW. damage (Table 1 and Fig. 1). The higher (6 %
Thereafter, the infestation increased and to 10 %) branch damage was recorded during
reached its peak during 35th SMW with 48.8 26th to 35th SMW. Whereas, the infestation was
percent twig damage. The infestation due to (2 % to 4 %) negligible during the rest of the
gall forming black caterpillar showed gradual crop period. Thus, the average branch damage
decrease from 37th SMW till 50th SMW, which was recorded as 3.75 percent in aonla
ranged from 3.2 to 44.8 percent twig damage. throughout the crop period.
Thus, an average twig damage due to B.
stylophora was recorded at 14.68 percent and The results on occurrence of aonla
higher activity of the pest was observed during aphid, C. emblica on aonla indicated that the
28th SMW (34.4 %) to 37th SMW (44.8 %) in population was commenced from 15th SMW
aonla crop. which recorded 0.02 aphid index (Table 1 and
36
Fig. 4). The population gradually increased second peak during 31st SMW which recorded
from 15th SMW and reached its first peak 1.12 aphid index. Thus, the average population
during 24th SMW (2.78 aphid index). of aphid was 0.45 aphid index on aonla during
Thereafter, the aphid population showed its the crop period.
Table 1: Incidence of major pests of Aonla during 2021

Insect Infestation
SMW Gall forming black Aphid
Leaf roller (Leaflet Bark eating caterpillar
caterpillar Index
damage %) (Branch damage %)
(Twig damage %) (0-9)
1 2.40 0.63 2.00 0.00
3 1.60 0.45 2.00 0.00
5 0.80 0.18 4.00 0.00
7 0.00 0.11 4.00 0.00
9 0.00 0.00 4.00 0.00
11 0.00 0.00 4.00 0.00
13 0.00 0.00 2.00 0.00
15 0.00 0.00 2.00 0.02
18 0.00 0.00 2.00 0.26
20 0.80 0.37 2.00 0.94
22 2.40 2.25 6.00 2.14
24 5.40 3.67 6.00 2.78
26 23.20 5.23 10.00 2.28
28 34.40 9.61 8.00 0.26
31 36.80 12.48 8.00 1.12
33 40.80 10.41 6.00 0.82
35 48.80 8.83 2.00 0.08
37 44.80 6.47 2.00 0.06
40 37.60 3.89 2.00 0.42
42 30.40 4.32 2.00 0.16
44 21.60 2.93 4.00 0.00
46 16.80 2.31 2.00 0.00
48 10.40 1.84 2.00 0.00
50 4.80 0.68 2.00 0.00
52 3.20 0.32 2.00 0.00
Mean 14.68 2.98 3.75 0.45
Note: SMW- Standard Meteorological Week
37
2. Correlation with abiotic factors Acknowledgements
The results presented in Table 2 The authors are grateful to Professor

indicated that the minimum temperature and Head, Department of Entomology, S. D.
(MinT) exhibited a significant or highly Agricultural University, Sardarkrushinagar for
significant positive correlation with major providing all necessary facilities to conduct
pests viz., gall forming black caterpillar experiments.
(r=0.521**), leaf roller (r=0.592**), bark
eating caterpillar (r=0.436*) and aphid (r =
0.588**) incidence. Further, relative humidity
(RH1) exhibited significant or highly
significant positive correlation with major
pests viz., gall forming black caterpillar
(r=0.887**), leaf roller (r=0.883**), bark
eating caterpillar (r=0.404*) and aphid (r=
0.385*) incidence. It is also evident from the
result that the incidence of gall forming black
caterpillar (r=0.658**), leaf rolling caterpillar
(r= 0.883**) and aphid (r=0.429*) had a
significant positive correlation with morning
relative humidity (RH1). Leaf rolling
caterpillar (r= 0.395*), bark eating caterpillar
(r=0.654**) and aphid (r=0.824**) were
highly significant with the wind speed (WS).
Rainfall (RF) was highly significant with gall
forming black caterpillar (r= 0.605**) and leaf
rolling caterpillar (r=0.521**) whereas, bright
sunshine hours was highly significant but
negative correlation with gall forming black
caterpillar (r= -0.665**) and leaf rolling
caterpillar (r= -0.770**). Bharpoda et al.
(2009), Patel et al. (2013), Norboo et al.
(2018), Sashidharan and Verma (2008) and
Meshram et al. (2017) also studied pests of
aonla in relation to abiotic factors.
38
EP BSS RF WS
MaxT MinT RH I RH II
RD Twig damage (%) Leaflet damage (%) Branch damage (%)
90 60
Twig/Leaflet/ Branch damage(%)/Aphid Index

80
50
70
Weather parameters
60 40
50
30
40
30 20
20
10
10
0 0
1 3 5 7 9 11 13 15 18 20 22 24 26 28 31 33 35 37 40 42 44 46 48
Standard metereological week
Fig. 1: Incidence of insect pests on aonla during 2021
Table 2: Correlation between major pests of aonla and weather parameters during 2021
Weather parameters
Sr.
Pests Temperature Relative Humidity
No. Wind Bright
Rainfall Evaporation
speed sunshine
Max Min Morning Evening
Gall forming -
1 0.521** 0.578** 0.887** 0.116 0.605** 0.153 -0.665**
caterpillar 0.023
Leaf rolling
2 0.019 0.592** 0.636** 0.883** 0.395* 0.521** 0.126 -0.770**
caterpillar
Bark eating
3 0.247 0.436* 0.269 0.404* 0.663** 0.073 0.188 -0.354
caterpillar
4 Aphid 0.387 0.588** 0.424* 0.385* 0.824** 0.003 0.315 -0.114
Note: *Significant at 5 percent level (r = 0.381), **Significant at 1 percent level (r = 0.487),
39
Fig. 2. Betousa stylophora Fig. 3. Gracillaria acidula
Fig. 4. Inderbela tetraonis Fig. 5. Cerciaphis emblica
40
References Norboo, T.; Shankar, U.; Ahmad, H. and

Kumar, M. (2018). Population
Bharpoda, T. M.; Koshiya, D. J. and Korat, D. dynamics of leaf roller of aonla in
M. (2009). Seasonal occurrence of relation to abiotic factors. Journal of
insect-pests on aonla (Emblica Entomology and Zoology Studies.6(4):
officinalis Geartn) and their natural 1388-1391.
enemies. Karnataka Journal
Agriculture Science. 22(2): 314-318. Patel, M. G.; Patel, G. P.; Shekh, A. M.; Patel,
J. R.; Patel, H. R. and Patel, M. J.
Chadha, K. L. (2003). Handbook of (2013). Effect of abiotic weather on
Horticulture, ICAR Publication, New twig damage in amla (Emblica
Delhi. Pp. 747. officinalis) by Betousa stylophora. The
Indian Journal of Agricultural
Lakra, R. K. (1996). Some important pests of Sciences. 170-175.
fruit crops of arid regions and their
management. Proc. Natln. Symp. Arid Sasidharan, K. R. and Varma, R. V. (2008).
Horticulture, Horticulture Society of Seasonal population variations of the
Haryana, CCSHAU, Hisar. Pp.144- bark eating caterpillar (Indarbela
147. quadrinotata) in Casuarina plantations
of Tamil Nadu. Tropical Ecology.
Meshram, P. B.; Mawai, N. S. and Malviya, R. 49(1): 79.
K. (2017). Impact of Damage and Eco-
friendly Management of Bark Eating Shrivastava, S. S. (1990). Horticulture
Caterpillar, Indarbela quadrinotata in Science. Central Block House, Raipur,
Emblica officinalis Plantation. Indian India, Pp. 230.
Forester. 143(5): 459-463.
41
DOI: 10.55278/NMZB3417
Biology and morphometry of curry leaf tortoise beetle, Silana farinosa
(Boheman) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae: Cassidinae)- an emerging pest in
Kerala
Karthika S1 and Malini Nilamudeen2*
1
Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala,
India- 695522
2
Regional Agricultural Research Station (RARS), Pattambi, Kerala, India- 679303
Abstract
Silana farinosa (Boheman), commonly known as curry leaf tortoise beetle, is a coleopteran
pest of curry leaves and some other plants belonging to the Rutaceae family. It is an emerging
major pest of curry leaves in India that can cause severe defoliation to the crop. A female lays an
average of 5.00 + 0.52 ootheca in her lifetime with a mean of 14.00 + 0.33 eggs in it. The average
duration of the egg stage was 5.30 + 0.15 days, the grub stage was 16.80 + 0.29 days, the pupal
stage was 5.00 + 0.21 and the adult stage was 81.10 + 0.80 days.
Key words: Curry leaf, Silana farinosa, Kerala
Introduction cultivation, there is a shift in pest status of

many species infesting curry leaf of which S.
Curry leaf Murraya koenigii (L.)
farinosa requires special attention.
Spreng. (Rutaceae) is an important perennial
leafy vegetable cum spice and an indispensable Boheman first identified this species as
ingredient of Indian cuisines. The leaves are Cassida farinosa in 1856 from Sri Lanka and
highly valued for their characteristic citrusy later, Sapaeth established the genus Silana as
aroma and flavour. It is also a crop that is the sole classification for this species in 1914
heavily focused on exports, with India being its (Pathour et al., 2021). It was earlier noticed
top exporter globally, followed by Sri Lanka causing heavy damage to curry leaves grown
and Kenya (Volza, 2023). Curry leaves are an in Peninsular Malaysia (Sajap and
ineluctable crop in practically every South Mohamedsaid, 1997) and Sri Lankan regions
Indian homestead due to the fast growth of the (Talagala and Manawadu, 1979). Takizawa
shrub and the distinctive aroma of the leaves. (1980 and 1985) reported the occurrence of
Recently, the government of Kerala has taken this beetle on Ziziphus sp. from Tamil Nadu,
the initiative to popularize curry leaf plants in India. Pathour et al. (2021) reported a sporadic
every homestead. With increased area under
42
outbreak of this beetle in the Karnataka regions were kept for hatching in petri dishes lined
causing heavy loss to curry leaves grown there. with filter paper. The tip of the petiole was
Nowadays, the attack of S. farinosa is severe covered with a moist cotton plug to prevent
in Kerala. As a result of an increase in the drying up. Grubs hatched were transferred to
cultivation of curry leaf in South Indian states, another petri dish and were provided with fresh
the curry leaf tortoise beetle attains the status tender leaves twice daily (Fig.1). Last instar
of major pest and adversely affects the grubs were transferred to plastic containers for
economy of curry leaf farmers. As detailed pupation and adult emergence. Adult pairs
information on the lifecycle of a pest is were transferred to separate containers to study
essential to elucidate proper management fecundity and longevity (Fig.2). Leaves were
measures, the biology, and morphometry of S. provided daily and freshly laid ootheca were
farinosa are studied in detail in this project. transferred to petri plates to study the biology
of the insect. The biological and morphological
Materials and Methods parameters of the insects were studied during
the period from October 2021 to September
The biology of S. farinosa was studied
2022. The biological parameters observed
at the Department of Agricultural Entomology,
College of Agriculture, Vellayani, were egg, grub, adult and total life cycle, and
fecundity of the females. Morphometric
Thiruvananthapuram (8°25'36.70410"N,
76°59'6.08759"E) Kerala during the year measurements recorded were ootheca
diameter, grub, pupal and adult length, and
October 2021- September 2022. Ootheca of the
beetles were collected from the field along width, under microscope using Zeis Zen 3.6
software.
with tender leaves on which they were laid and
Fig 1: Rearing of S. farinosa Fig 2: Fecundity study
43
Results and Discussion changed to brown. The beetles developed a

white waxy coating on their body after two to
The adult beetles were hemispherical in
three days of hatching. The average adult
shape like tortoises. The average size of the
period recorded was 81.10 + 0.80 days (Table
adults was 6.80 + 0.14 and 4.81 + 0.03 mm in
1). This was in contrast to the report by Sajap
length and width. Sajap and Mohamedsaid
and Mohamedsaid (1997) in Peninsular
(1997) reported the size of the beetles as 6 and
Malaysia, where they recorded the average
5 mm in length and breadth, respectively. Hari
adult period as 45 days. This variation can be
(2020) observed the size of the beetles as 6.60-
attributed to the varying climatic parameters in
7.70 mm length and 5.30-6.00 mm in width.
different regions. Another work by Talagala
Teneral adults were light yellow in colour and
and Manawadu (1979) reports the adult’s
about two to three hours later, their colour
longevity to be four months.
Fig 3: Adult beetle Fig 4: Mating
Male and female beetles were hard to tune with the observation by Sajap and
distinguish superficially. Both were Mohamedsaid (1997). Mating was observed
hemispherical in shape with a white-waxy during the morning hours and during mating,
coating on their body (Fig.3). Sometimes the the males mounted on the top of the females,
male beetles were smaller than the females but with their legs grasping their counterpart’s
that was not always the case. Males were elytra firmly (Fig.4). The fecundity was on an
identified by the position they assumed during average 5.00 + 0.52 ootheca per female under
the mating process. Mating usually started one laboratory conditions. Sajap and
week after the adult emergence and this was in Mohamedsaid (1997) also reported that the
44
average fecundity of a female was three to four secretion was to protect the eggs from natural
oothecas during her entire life. enemies. The diameter of the ootheca was on
average 3.96 + 0.03 mm. Talagala and
The eggs were laid by the females on
Manawadu (1979) recorded the average size of
the ventral surface of leaves. The individual
the eggs as 4.00 by 3.50 mm whereas Sajap and
eggs were elliptical in shape and they were
Mohamedsaid (1997) reported the average
stacked to each other. After laying a batch of
diameter of an ootheca as 3.00 mm. Ootheca
eggs, the female beetles secreted a clear fluid
was firmly attached to the lower surface of
on the top of the eggs (Fig.5) which hardened
young leaves. The number of eggs in an
to form a reddish-brown, dome shaped ootheca
ootheca was 14.00 + 0.33 eggs. The average
(Fig.6) within a few hours. The purpose of this
duration of the egg stage was 5.30 + 0.15 days.
Fig 5: Freshly laid eggs Fig 6: Hardened ootheca
The eggs hatched to give rise to grubs long anal tube and a dorsal forked process,
(Fig.7). Grubs were similar in form and they called urogomphi, that were bent upward. The
increased in size later (Fig.8). Their colour exuviae and faeces gathered at the urogomphi
changed from yellowish green in the first instar as a result of the larvae's incomplete cuticle
to greenish black in the fifth instar during the shedding during moulting. Over the body, a
development. The mean length and width of black ball-like waste material gradually
the instars are given in Table 2. The grubs were developed from the exuviae and the faeces.
elongated and tapered distally. They had 8 The larvae typically flicked the excreta in the
pairs of spines on their thoracic and abdominal shape of a ball up and down when threatened.
segments. The abdomen at its posterior end The average grub period was 16.80 + 0.29
had caudal appendages, which consisted of a days. Talagala and Manawadu (1979) recorded
45
a mean grub period of 18 days and Sajap and duration of each stadium as 3, 3, 3, 3 and 6
Mohamedsaid (1997) recorded the average days, respectively.
Fig 7: Newly hatched grubs
Fig 8: Different instars of S. farinosa grubs
The pre-pupal period usually lasted for case was made of exuviae and faeces of the
about one day, similar to that recorded by grubs. The pupa was initially yellow (Fig.9)
Sajap and Mohamedsaid (1997). The pupa and later changed to brown (Fig.10). It also had
appeared from the larval cuticle through a split a broad pronotum. Abdominal segments also
in the median line of the thorax and pushed the contained spines. Pupal period was about 5.00
exuviae to the caudal appendages. The pupal + 0.21 days and the mean length and width of
46
the pupae were 6.84 + 0.04 and 5.74 + 0.11 the pupa as 7.00 and 5.00 mm, respectively and
mm, respectively. Sajap and Mohamedsaid the pupal period as five to six days.
(1997) recorded the mean length and width of
Fig 9: Pupal stage (initial) Fig 10: Pupal stage (final)
Table 1: Biological parameters of curry leaf tortoise beetle, Silana farinosa
No. of days
Parameters Mean + SE
Minimum Maximum
Egg period 5 6 5.30 + 0.15
Grub period 16 18 16.80 + 0.29
Pupal period 4 6 5.00 + 0.21
Adult period 78 85 81.10 + 0.80
Total period 104 111 108.20 + 0.77
Fecundity 3 7 5.00 + 0.52
N=10; SE- Standard error
47
Table 2: Morphological parameters of curry leaf tortoise beetle, Silana farinosa
Morphometric measurements (mm)

Sl. No. Particulars Mean + SE
Minimum Maximum
1. Ootheca
Diameter 3.8 4.06 3.96 + 0.03
2. First instar grub
Length 2.29 2.65 2.46 + 0.04
Width 0.77 0.83 0.79 + 0.01
3. Second instar grub
Length 3.73 4.28 4.00+ 0.06
Width 1.43 1.49 1.46 + 0.01
4. Third instar grub
Length 5.78 6.14 5.99 + 0.03
Width 2.67 2.79 2.72 + 0.02
5. Fourth instar grub
Length 7.88 8.12 7.98 + 0.03
Width 3.55 3.59 3.58 + 0.01
6. Fifth instar grub
Length 9.78 10.13 9.96 + 0.04
Width 4.89 5.26 5.05 + 0.04
7. Pupa
Length 6.66 7.03 6.84 + 0.04
Width 5.35 6.25 5.74 + 0.11
8. Adult
Length 6.45 7.35 6.80 + 0.14
Width 4.68 4.88 4.81 + 0.03
N=10; SE- Standard Error
48
Grubs and adults of S. farinosa are also plants looked sickly and burnt in appearance.
reported to feed on other plants like Ziziphus Kumari et al. (2017) reported that the grubs
sp. (Takizawa, 1980) and Micromelum caused maximum damage to the plants, by
minutum (Mohamedsaid, 2006). Grubs scraping green matter from the ventral surface
exhibited congregating behaviour whereas of leaves leaving behind only a net like leaf
adults were found scattered on the leaves. lamina. Pathour et al. (2021) also noticed
Cycloalexy is the term used to describe this similar symptoms caused by the beetle in
particular behaviour of the grubs. These Karnataka. The mode of feeding by adult
coordinated movements are used to repel their beetles was however different. The adults
natural enemies (Vasconcellos-Neto and completely ate up the leaves, similar to a
Jolivet, 1994). S. farinosa upon hatching, caterpillar’s mode of feeding (Fig.12). The
moved to the ventral surface of leaves, in a attack by the pest also caused yellowing and
gregarious manner and they fed by scrapping defoliation of the plants. Since the beetle feeds
the epidermal layer of the leaves (Fig.11). As a on leaves, which is the main economic part of
result of their feeding, leaves were left with the plant, appropriate management strategies
only a thin layer of membrane and hence the need to be followed against its outbreak.
Fig 11: Feeding symptom by grubs
Fig 12: Feeding symptoms by adult
49
Acknowledgements Sajap A S and Mohamedsaid M S. 1997.

Biology of Silana farinosa (Boheman)
The authors are thankful to the Dean, (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), a new
College of Agriculture, Vellayani, Kerala pest of Murraya koenigii Thw.
Agricultural University, for providing the (Rutaceae) in Peninsular Malaysia.
necessary grant and facilities for the research Malayan Nature Journal (Malaysia)
work. 50: 167 –171.
Takizawa H. 1980. Immature stages of some

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50
DOI: 10.55278/AIMO9121
A study on the public awareness and attitude towards weaver ant nests in and
around St Joseph’s University Campus, Bengaluru, Karnataka
Abhishek Mishra, Joshua Dhawale and M Jayashankar*
Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences,
St. Joseph’s University, Bengaluru, India-560027
Ants are one of the most common are also found to feed on mosquitoes and so act
insects belonging to the order Hymenoptera. as biological controllers (Vanitha, 2021).
Globally there are 12,571 species of ants. The
Indian subcontinent has 828 species belonging A study was conducted in and around
to 100 different genera (Rajagopal et al., the campus of St. Joseph’s University,
2018), among which the Asian weaver ant, Bengaluru (12.96 N Latitude and 77.59 E
Oecophylla smaragdina (Formicidae) well Longitude) (Map 1 and 2). St. Joseph’s
known for the unique layout of their nests. O. University is located in the heart of Bengaluru,
smaragdina weaves the leaves together with surrounded by the residential area, where the
the help of the silk produced by their larvae to average temperature oscillates between 31℃-
construct the nest. Weaver ants are part of the 18℃. O. smaragdina nests were spotted in the
diet, medicine and tradition of the local people study area. Perception study about the species
of many tribes found in Assam (Langthasa et was undertaken with the residents of the area
al., 2017). The weaver ants are found to be and the number of nests per plant/tree was
more active at the temperature of 20-25℃, and counted. A total of fifteen households were
activity decreases with the increase of the visited during the survey in and around the SJU
temperature to 30℃ (Sangma et al., 2021). O. campus (Map 2). During the survey, the
smaragdina nests play a very important role as following questions were asked of the
biological control in fruiting plants (Verghese residents: 1). Did they know what the nest
et al., 2013). Characteristics and features of was? 2). Were they aware of the presence of
the tree and the leaves might be taken into ant nests in their vicinity? 3). Did they know it
account for the nest site selection by the belonged to the weaver ant? 4). What is their
weaver ants (Devarajan, 2016). Weaver ants opinion on the nest? Is it a nuisance or
feed on nectar and honeydew produced by beneficial? 5). Are they unbothered by the ants
various homopterans (Blüthgen and Fiedler, or do they take measures to eradicate them? 6).
2002). And yet are viewed as pests particularly Any annoying experience with the ants? 7).
in urban areas where pesticides or herbal Was it an adult, a child or a pet that got bitten
extracts are used to eradicate them. Red ants and how often? The study was conducted in
51
the months of February and March 2023. We to tag the location and to take the photographs
used a RealmeC15 mobile phone and Samsung of the nest and the ants.
to which lenses of 12X and 24X were attached,
Map 1: Location of the nests (1-9), 1 represents SJU CAMPUS

Map 2: Location of the nests (10-17)
Based on the responses to the questionnaires, cut the branches, whereas 5 of them used neem
the results were recorded as follows: 6 out of spray. 9 out of 15 had a painful experience with
15 knew what the nest was, 11 out of 15 were the ants, 10 out of 15 said the ants were found
aware of its presence, 4 out of 15 knew it biting adults and 2 out of 15 said the ants
belonged to weaver ants, 10 out of 15 had no annoyed the pets as well. The responses are
opinion about the ants. Only 2 of them represented in Fig 1-7.
considered them to be beneficial, 7 out of 15
52
Knowing what
Aware of
the nest is
the nest
Not aware
Not knowing
of the nest
what the nest is
Fig. 1: Response to, Did they know what nest Fig. 2: Response to, Were they aware of
is? the presence of ant nests in their vicinity?
Knew it No opinion
belonged to
weaver ants
Beneficial
Did not know
Not beneficial
Fig. 3: Response to, Did they know it belongs to Fig. 4: Response to, What is their opinion
the weaver ant? on the nest? Is it a nuisance or beneficial?
Cutting branches
Painful
Neem spray experience
No painful
No measures experience
Fig. 5: Response to, Are they unbothered by Fig. 6: Response to, Any annoying
ants or do they take measures to eradicate them? experience with the ants?
Biting adults
Biting pets
No biting
Fig. 7: Was it an adult, a child or a pet that got bitten and how often?
53
25
20
Number of nests
15
10
0
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17
Number of location with plant/tree
Fig. 8: Number of nests found in each location
Fig. 9: Oecophylla nest on Fig. 10: Oecophylla nest on Ixora coccinea

Mangifera indica (Inflorescence)
Fig.11: Oecophylla nest on Ixora Fig.12: Oecophylla nest on Hibiscus rosa

coccinea (Leaves) sinensis
54
Mangifera indica was the most common tree Bheemanakuppe, Southern Bengaluru.
with nests (Fig. 9) on them i.e. 8 out of the 17 Insect Environment. 26(2): 150-153.
documented. Ixora coccinea had the most nests
Devarajan K. 2016. The Ansty Social
in one plant, 23 in one plant (Figs.10 and 11).
Network: Determinants of Nest
The nests were also found on the Hibiscus rosa Structure and arrangement of Asian
sinensis plant (Fig. 12). It is clear that the weaver Ants. PLoS 11(6):e0156681.
majority of people are aware of the nuisance
caused by weaver ants. However, only a few of Langthasa S, Teron R and Tamuli AK. 2017
them knew about the nests that the weaver ants Weaver ants (Oecophylla smaragdina):
A multi-utility Natural resources in
build. Neem spray and chopping off branches
Dima Hasao district Assam.
appear to be the most used methods to
International Journal of Applied
eradicate the nests. Two residents gave us Environmental Sciences 2(4): 709-715.
insights on how chemical sprays do more harm
than good and how chopping off the branches Rajgopal T, Singam P, Kulandaivel S,
necessitates their burning to prevent further Selvarani S, Sevarkodiyone S, and
spread. Recently, Deva and Jayashankar Ponmanickam P. 2018. Survey of red
weaver ants (Oecophylla smaragdina)
(2023) have documented weaver nest
and their host plant in urban and rural
occurrence around a water body in Bengaluru
habitats of Madurai District, Tamil
South. Notably, the present observation is a Nadu, India. JENS. 7(1): 938-943.
public awareness undertaken in an urban
locality in Bengaluru. Sangma J.S and Prasad S.B. 2021. Population
and Nesting behaviour of weaver Ant,
References Oecophylla smaragina from Meghalaya
India. Sociobiology. 68(4): e7204.
Blüthgen N and Fiedler K. 2002. Interactions
between weaver ants Oecophylla Vanitha K. 2021. Red ants devour Mosquitoes
smaragdina, homopterans, trees and too. Insect Environment. 24(4): 563-564.
lianas in an Australian rainforest
canopy. Journal of Ecology. 71 (5): Verghese A, Kamala P.D, Sreedevi K, Devi S
793-801. and Pinto V. 2013. A quick and non-
destructive population estimate for the
Deva H.G.S and Jayashankar M. 2023. Nest weaver ant, Oecophylla smaragina Fab.
abundance of Asian weaver ant (Hymenopteran Formicidae). Current
(Oecophylla smaragdina) around Science. 104 (5): 641-646.
NPKL 7th Block Lake,
55
Review articles & Short notes

DOI: 10.55278/IMCC9441
Artificial Intelligence (AI) in entomology-Indian scenario
A. Ankita Rani, Saadia Anjum, Sneha Ann Shibu and M. Jayashankar*
Department of Zoology, School of Life Sciences,
St. Joseph’s University, Bengaluru-560027, Karnataka, India.
The use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) learning can be integrated with DNA
in entomology has significantly impacted barcoding methods to classify insects (Raibagi,
insect classification and pest management 2021).
globally and in India as well. A brief note on
Artificial Intelligence (AI) in different avenues Conservation: The recent advancement in data
of entomology in the Indian scenario is science coupled with the revolution in digital
discussed. and satellite technology has improved the
potential for Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Taxonomy: Through traditional morphological applications in the forest sector and
approaches, evolutionary approaches, and biodiversity conservation (Shivaprakash et al.,
molecular tools, systematics has proven to be 2022; Shreyas et al., 2022). By mapping the
resilient over the centuries. AI techniques, biodiversity of insects, image-based
such as machine learning and image monitoring can pinpoint the species that are in
recognition, have expedited the identification danger of going extinct and develop plans to
and classification of insects (Kasinathan et al., prevent them. While image recognition may be
2021). Entomologists are increasingly using effective for certain species, it is not able to
deep learning models to classify insects as a identify species that are not easily noticeable to
result of advancements in AI including the human eye. Acoustic recognition comes in
Convolution Neural Networks (CNNs) which quite handy in this situation. In addition to
show great potential in the automatic detection conventional and camera-based monitoring,
and classification of insects from videos and auditory recognition will provide fresh
even time-lapse images. Advanced processors perspectives that allow scientists to identify
are used by microcomputers for real-time insect species that would otherwise go
object-based monitoring, and radar sensors for unnoticed, allowing them to keep an eye on
the study of insects. The combination of and protect these important populations. First,
picture and acoustic data may enable the a preliminary detection model identified
identification of insects that are difficult to candidate insects. Second, the candidate
identify. Image-based models based on deep insects were manually screened by users of an
56
online citizen science platform. Finally, all with AI-powered image recognition systems,
annotations were quality checked by experts which can then quickly identify pests. There
(Bjerge et al., 2022). For instance, automated are several uses for AI in pest control viz.,
detection of plant pests can be achieved Simple way for field scouting, accurate field
through the utilization of image recognition identification of the pest, and regular pest
technology that relies on deep learning monitoring to undertake pest control
algorithms. The researchers initially deployed intervention (Singh et al., 2022). Prabha et
an adhesive trap to ensnare six distinct types of al.(2021) developed an automated Artificial
airborne insects and gather photos in real-time. Intelligence Powered Expert System (AIPES)
Subsequently, the detection and rough for identifying fall armyworm infestation in
counting technique was established on You maize. Computer vision can assist not only in
Only Look Once (YOLO) object detection, the detection of agricultural diseases but also
while the classification and precise counting in their prevention. Pesticides can now be
relied on Support Vector Machines (SVM) automatically sprayed evenly across large
utilizing global features. Ultimately, their monoculture field patterns, like corn, thanks to
computer vision model successfully detected Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) outfitted
bees, flies, mosquitoes, moths, chafers, and with computer vision Artificial Intelligence.
fruit flies with a precision of 90.18% and The ability to identify target spraying locations
accurately counted them with a precision of in real-time allows UAV sprayers to function
92.5%. V7 is an AI Data Platform that with exceptional precision, both in terms of the
integrates automated annotation with dataset area to be sprayed and the volume to be
management, picture annotation, and video sprayed. This effectively lowers the chance of
annotation (Khan, 2022). contaminating water supplies, land, people,
and animals and aids in insect pest control
Pest management: One such technique that is (Khan, 2022). Drone operational
highly accurate in identifying the presence of characteristics such as flight speed, flight
pests is deep learning. An ML algorithm called height, nozzle type, payload, and drone type
CART can accurately predict when probable are tailored for the particular situation in order
diseases and insect attacks will occur. Frequent to increase the efficacy of insecticidal
human monitoring is not able to accurately application in crops. In cases where farmers
estimate the extent of pest problems. Other are unable to use drones, a variety of mobile
techniques involved in agriculture and pest applications, based on artificial intelligence for
management include image processing the identification and warning of pests and
algorithms, confusion matrices, and Neural diseases related to maize, have been released
Network Algorithms (Raja, 2022). Large to identify insect pests on various crops. The
agricultural fields may be scanned by drones National Agricultural Science Fund (NASF)
57
provided funding for this investigation. Using identifying insect pest (Kumar et al., 2023;
a demonstrated deep learning algorithm, this Gupta et al., 2023), accuracy rate of more than
app uses Artificial Intelligence to gather 80%, MobileNetV3 model faster and more
photos of several insect pests of maize, such as accurate YOLO-based detection (Kumar et al.,
Sesamia inferens, Chilo partellus, and 2023).
Spodoptera frugiperda, from farmer fields and
provide advice to farmers. Plantix is a crop India's agricultural industry is being
advisory app that can be used by gardeners, revolutionized by AI, which is improving
farmers, and extension agents on the go. PEAT cultivating techniques and necessitating a
GmbH, an AI startup with headquarters in substantial investment in training. AI
Berlin, created Plantix. The app claims that it algorithms are reducing insect pests, hence
can identify crop-damaging pests, plant enhancing food security (Taneja et al., 2023).
illnesses, and nutritional deficits and provides Mobile apps have been created by research
appropriate treatment options. Users can organizations to effectively manage insect
engage in discussions about plant health issues pests in a variety of crops. The Digital
with scientists, farmers, and plant Agriculture team of the International Crops
professionals in the online community. Research Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics
Farmers receive access to local weather (ICRISAT), Hyderabad launched the iHub
information, valuable farming advice all (innovation hub) that plays a critical role in
season long, and disease alerts when a disease strengthening connections between
starts to spread in their area (Bhargavi and researchers and the private sector. Outcomes
Jagadeesh, 2022). include Digital tools like Plantix and Kalgudi
that create two-way information flows between
Compared to the visual method of researchers and farmers. Plantix, developed by
detecting plant disease, automatic detection German startup Progressive Environmental
with Artificial Intelligence (AI) takes less time and Agricultural Technologies (PEAT), uses
and effort and is more accurate (Singh and deep learning to detect more than 300 diseases,
Misra, 2016). The deep learning methods viz., from images of crops uploaded by farmers,
Convolution Neural Network (CNN), Fast while Kalgudi provides an opportunity for
Region-based CNN (Fast R-CNN), Faster ICRISAT to rapidly deliver pest alerts to more
Region-based CNN (Faster R- CNN) and You farmers (https://knowledge4food.net/icrisat-
Look Only Once v5 (YOLOv5) are used in in innovation-broker-working-with-private-
the field of entomology (Devi et al., 2022). The sector-an-interview-with-ram-dhulipala/)
use of computer vision (CV) in agriculture
allows for the early detection and prevention of Farmers are adopting new technologies
disease/pest, CNN (VGG) model is used in to meet global food demands by managing
58
insect pests using artificial intelligence security. The adoption of cognitive solutions
approaches contributing to increased food will play a significant role in farming's future.
Glossary
Acronym Full Form

YOLO You Only Look Once
SVM Support Vector Machines
ML Machine Learning
CART Classification and Regression Trees
UAVs Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
NASF The National Agricultural Science Fund
AIPES Artificial Intelligence Powered Expert System
CNN Convolution Neural Network
R-CNN Region-Based Convolution Neural Network
CV Computer Vision
PEAT Progressive Environmental and Agricultural Technologies
References Factors and Comparison of Deep

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Science. 13(4):1339-1349. Singh V. and Misra, A.K. 2017. Detection of
plant leaf diseases using image
Raibagi K. 2021. How AI is transforming segmentation and soft computing
Insect Research. Analytics India techniques. Information processing in
Magazine. https://analyticsindiamag. Agriculture. 4(1): 41-49.
com/how-ai-is-transforming-insect-
research/. Jan 20. Taneja, A., Nair, G., Joshi, M., Sharma, S.,
Sharma, S., Jambrak, A. R., Roselló-
Raja K, A. 2022. Role of AI in Integrated Pest Soto, E., Barba, F. J., Castagnini, J. M.,
Management, India AI, https://indiaai. Leksawasdi, N., and Phimolsiripol, Y.
gov.in/article/role-of-ai-in-integrated- 2023. Artificial Intelligence:
pest-management. Jun 22, 2022. Implications for the Agri-Food Sector.
Agronomy.13(5):1397.https://doi.org/1
0.3390/agronomy13051397.
MS Received on 03rd January, 2024
60
DOI:10.55278/LXPV9830
Climate variables affecting insect pests
P. M. Patel1 and C. B. Varma2*
Department of Entomology, B. A. College of Agriculture,
Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat- 388 001 India
Department of Entomology, College of Agriculture,
Anand Agricultural University, Vaso, Gujarat- 387230 India
Climate change is the most significant significant increase in the activity of enzymatic
global change that has attracted the attention of markers in apple aphids was displayed with an
the scientific community all over the globe. increase in temperature (Dampc et al., 2020).
Climate parameters such as elevated The number of generations of Helicoverpa
temperatures, elevated CO2 levels and erratic armigera was predicted to increase with a
precipitation patterns have significant impacts decrease in their generation time under
on agricultural insect pests. Climate change elevated temperatures (Srinivasa Rao et al.,
can affect insect pests in several ways. 2023). The adult longevity of Citrostichus
According to a survey, about 940 out of 1600 phyllocnistoides and Cirrospilus ingenuus,
insect species showed the effects of climate when reared on citrus leaf miner, exhibited a
change (Deka et al., 2011). It resulted in significant decrease in response to elevated
accelerated insect-pest reproduction, temperatures (Ullah et al., 2023).
expansion of geographic ranges, disruption of
interactions with host plants, changes in (b) Elevated CO2 (eCO2)
diapauses duration and led to increased insect- Larval weights of Achaea Janata and
transmitted diseases (Shrestha, 2019). Spodoptera litura on the foliage of castor
Abiotic variables affecting insect pests: plants were significantly increased with an
increase in CO2 concentrations (Srinivasa Rao
(a) Elevated temperature et al., 2009). Chewing insects suffer from
reduced plant quality due to lower foliar
Increased temperatures, particularly in
nitrogen under eCO2 while phloem-sucking
an early season have been reported to increase
insects like aphids show species-specific
the incidence of viral diseases in potatoes due
responses often increasing because eCO2 leads
to early colonization of virus-bearing aphids
to more sugar levels of leaf, impacting leaf
(Robert et al., 2000). Every 1°C increase in
structures, amino acids and secondary
temperature caused additional migration of 14-
16 lepidopteron species to England from metabolites (Sun et al., 2011).Asian ladybird
beetle increased their predation on aphids
southwest Europe (Sparks et al., 2007). A
61
under elevated CO₂ concentration compared to alterations in atmospheric gas composition can
ambient CO₂ concentration (Chen et al., 2007). disrupt insect communications and elevated
Chewing insects decreased under eCO2 while CO2 and ozone levels affect herbivore-induced
sucking insects like aphids increased under plant volatiles, potentially altering prey
CO₂ (Sun et al., 2011). detection by insect predators (Boullis et al.,
2015). Recently, Thrips parvispinus invaded
(c) Erratic precipitation the chilli ecosystem causing 40 to 80 percent
of the damage in Andhra Pradesh and
In the sub-saharan desert area of
Africa, changes in rainfall patterns have led to Telangana which was presumed to be due to
the change in weather and climatic conditions
changes in migratory patterns of the desert
locust (Cheke and Tratalos, 2007) whereas, (Sridhar et al.,2021).
small-bodied pests like aphids, mites, jassids
Conclusion
and whiteflies can be washed away during
heavy rainfall (Pathak et al., 2012). Tomato It is widely accepted that climate
russet mite, Aculops lycopersici numbers change greatly affects insect pests associated
significantly increased under drought with agriculture. Insect pests’ responses to
conditions (Ximenez-Embun et al., 2017). The climate change vary globally due to species
fecundity of fall armyworm, Spodoptera diversity. There are various uncertainties
frugiperda was significantly decreased with an related to this impact including elevated
increase in relative humidity (Zhao et al., temperature, elevated CO2 level, and erratic
2021). Moreover, erratic precipitation also precipitation patterns. These variables
affects the tri-trophic interaction of insect pests profoundly impact insect pest distribution,
(Kumar et al., 2021). abundance, developmental rate and
consumption of insect pests. Additionally, it
(d) Interaction of abiotic variables increases pest survival allows for more
Sorghum crop resistance to sorghum generations, promotes invasive species and
midge was broken under high humidity and leads to an increase in insect-transmitted
moderate temperatures which was observed in diseases. Overall, climate change is expected
India (Sharma et al., 1992). Plants become to increase the frequency and diversity of pest
outbreaks creating complex challenges for pest
susceptible to insect pests like Japanese beetle
and western corn root worm due to reduced management and collectively contributing to
challenges in agriculture, including reduced
production of defensive cysteine proteinase
inhibitors (CystPIs) under higher crop yields and compromised food quality. For
these situations, we need to develop weather-
temperatures and CO2 (Gouinguene and
Turling, 2002). Climate change-induced responsive pest forecasting models to predict
and prepare for changing pest dynamics,
62
advocate for pest-resistant crop varieties and Sharma, H. C., Leuschner, K., &Taneja, S. L.
sustainable practices for resilient agriculture (1992). Technical report of
andscreen novel pesticides suitable for International Crops Research Institute
for the Semi-Arid Tropics, 192
climate-resilient pest management.
Shrestha, S. (2019). Acta Scientific
References Agriculture, Hyderabad, 3(12), 74-80.
Boullis, A., Francis, F., &Verheggen, F. J.
Sparks, T. H., Roy, D. B., & Dennis, R. L. H.
(2015). Environmental Entomology,
(2005). Global Change Biology, 11 (3),
44(2), 277-286.
507-514.
Cheke, R. A., &Tratalos, J. A. (2007).
Sridhar, V., Rachana, R. R., Prasannakumar,
Bioscience, 57(2), 145-154.
Kumari, D. A., & Reddy, M. K. (2021).
Chen, F., Wu, G., Parajulee, M. N., & Ge, F. Pest Management in Horticultural
(2007). Biocontrol Science and Ecosystems, 27(2), 132-136.
Technology, 17(3), 313-324.
Srinivasa Rao, M., Rama Rao, C. A., Raju, B.
Dampc, J., Kula-Maximenko, M., Molon, M., M. K., Subba Rao, A. V. M., &
&Durak, R. (2020). Insects, 11(7), 436. Chaudhari, S. K. (2023). Scientific
Reports, 13 (1), 6788.
Deka, S., Barthakur, S., Pandey, R., Singh, M.
P., Khetarpal, S., & Kumar, P. (2011). Sun, Y. C., Yin, J., Chen, F. J., Wu, G., & Ge,
Today and Tomorrow’s Printers and F. (2011). Insect Science, 18(4), 393-
Publishers, 301-312. 400.
Gouinguene, S. P., &Turlings T. C. (2002). Ullah, M. I., Arshad, M., Ali, S., Aatif, H. M.,
Plant Physiology, 129, 1296-130 &Altaf, N. (2023). Egyptian Journal of
Biological Pest Control, 33(1), 90.
Kumar, A., Giri, R. K., Taloor, A. K., & Singh,
A. K. (2021). Society and Ximenez-Embun, M. G., Glas, J. J., & Kant,
Environment, 23, 100-105. M. R. (2017). Experimental and
Applied Acarology, 73, 297-315.
Pathak, H., Aggarwal, P. K., & Singh, S. D.
(2012). Technical report of Indian Zhao, L., Ali, S., Ge, A., & Wu, K. (2021).
Agricultural Research Institute, 302. Journal of Economic Entomology,
114(3), 1145-1158.
Robert, Y., Woodford, J. T., &Ducray-
Bourdin, D. G. (2000). Virus Research,
71(1), 33- 47.
63
DOI: 10.55278/ZKTO8470
First record of leaf-twisting weevil Apoderus tranquebaricus Fab.
(Curculionidae: Coleoptera) on Ixora, Ixora coccinea Linn. (Rubiacea) from
Tamil Nadu, India
S. Kavimugilan1, A. Kalyanasundaram2* and V. Ambethgar3
Department of Entomology, Anbil Dharmalingam Agricultural College and Research Institute,
Navalurkuttapattu, Tiruchirapalli, Tamil Nadu, India– 620 027
The leaf-twisting weevil Apoderus earlier were Aphis spiraecola and A. gossypi
tranquebaricus Fab. (Curculionidae: (Verghese and Rashmi, 2023)
Coleoptera) primarily infests various tree crops
such as mango, amaranthus, jamun, jackfruit, The adult weevils exhibit a behavior
teak, guava, cashew, neem, etc. Mango trees where they cut and twist the leaves, forming
experience significant infestation levels, well-shaped thimble-like rolls that remain
particularly from July to October (Manikandan connected to the branches. The eggs were
et al., 2021). The leaf-twisting weevil can also deposited individually (Fig.1) in the outer
infest the Indian butter tree (Manikandan and region of the twisted leaf. In the initial stage,
Rengalakshmi, 2023). The leaf-twisting weevil the larvae are diminutive, exhibiting slow
is recognized as a significant pest, affecting movements and a pale-yellow hue (Fig.2),
mango trees, and impacting both nursery and devoid of legs (Manjunath and
main field environments. The life cycle of A. Umamaheshwari, 2018).
tranquebaricus includes eggs, five larval
The pupal stage takes place inside the
instars, pupae and adult stage (Manjunath and
rolled leaves. The adult weevils are medium-
Umamaheshwari, 2018).
sized, characterized by a reddish-brown
For the first time, the infestation of coloration and possess a long snout (Fig.3).
leaf-twisting weevil A. tranquebaricus on the The adult weevil scrapes the chlorophyll from
leaves of Ixora coccinea is reported at Anbil the leaf surface. Consequently, the affected
Dharmalingam Agricultural College and leaves display injury symptoms characterized
Research Institute (Latitude 100 45’N and by dark reddish-brown dried areas, indicative
Longitude 780 36’E), Navalurkuttapattu, of the damage caused by the weevil. While
Manikandam block, Tiruchirapalli district of weevils roll a single leaf for each egg, the
Tamil Nadu. The ixora leaves rolled process of leaf rolling can have a broader
(Fig.4,5,6) by leaf-twisting weevils. Other impact, affecting multiple leaves during the
insect species that were reported in ixora attempt.
64
Fig 1. Egg of leaf twisting weevil Fig 2. Grub of leaf twisting weevil
Fig 3. Adult leaf-twisting weevil
Fig 4, 5, 6. Ixora leaves rolled by leaf-twisting weevil
65
Ixora coccinea cultivars are Furthermore, fully ripened fruits (Fig.7) are
differentiated by colour variations in flowers consumed as a dietary source (Anisha and
(yellow, pink, and orange) and plant size. Gnanavel, 2020).
Fig 7. Fruit of Ixora
Reference Indian butter tree, Madhuca longifolia.

Eco farming 3(4):318-320.
Anisha, D., and Gnanavel. 2020. Review on
Ixora Coccinea: Traditional Use, Manjunath, J., and Umamaheshwari, T. 2018.
Phytochemical and Pharmacological Bio-ecology of mango Leaf twisting
Studies. Journal of Chemical and weevil (Apoderus transquebaricus)
Pharmaceutical Sciences, 13(1). (2018). Indian Journal of Pure &
Applied Biosciences, 6(6):375-382.
Manikandan, P., Suguna, K., and
Saravanaraman, M. 2021. Population Selvam, K. 2023. First record of Leaf twisting
dynamics of defoliating insect pests of weevil Apoderus tranquebaricus in
mango in the coastal agroecosystem of almond tree. Eco farming, 3(2):112-
Tamil Nadu. Pest Management in 114.
Horticultural Ecosystems, 27(2):196-
200. Verghese. A., and Rashmi, M.A. 2023. Plant
lice on Ixora: Predators in attendance.
Manikandan, P., and Rengalakshmi, R. 2023. Insect Environment.19th Nov 2023.
The first record of leaf-twisting weevil https://insectenvironment.com/f/plant-
Apoderus tranquebaricus Fab. lice-on-ixora-predators-in-attendance.
(Curculionidae: Coleoptera) on the
66
DOI:10.55278/AUQD2505
First report of brown wheat mite, Petrobia sp. on wheat in Gujarat
Swati Gamit1, C. B. Varma2*, A. G. Shukla3
1
Department of Agri. Entomology, BACA, Anand Agricultural University, Anand (Gujarat) -
India - 388 001
2
Department of Agri. Entomology, COA, Anand Agricultural University, Vaso (Gujarat) India -
387 380
3
Department of Agri. Entomology, NMCA, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari (Gujarat)
India - 396 421
Wheat [Triticum aestivam (L.)] is and seasonal pest. It has a reddish-brown

popularly known as “Gehoon” and belongs to cuticle, dark body contents and long legs.
the family of Poaceae. Wheat is a grass Claws pad-like, empodium hooked and with
widely cultivated for its seed, a cereal grain more than one pair of tenet hairs.
that is a worldwide staple food. The many
species of wheat together make up the genus
Triticum; the most widely grown is common
wheat (T. aestivum). In 2020, world production
of wheat was 761 million tonnes, making it the
second most-produced cereal after maize
(Anonymous, 2020).
A study on the seasonal activity of pest

infesting wheat was carried out at an
Fig. 1. Adult of Petrobia sp.
entomology farm, B. A. College of Agriculture
(22.5349° N, 72.9817° E), Anand Agricultural Genus Petrobia Murray, 1877 belongs
University, Anand Gujarat (India). During the to the family Tetranychidae, subfamily
field visit in May 2021, wheat crop was found Bryobiinae Berlese and tribe Petrobiini Reck,
infested with new seasonal pests (Fig. 1). So, 1952. Petrobia comprises three subgenera:
the adults were collected and brought to the Mesotetranychus Reck, 1948, Petrobia
Entomology laboratory for identification and Murray, 1877 and Tetranychina Wainstein,
further study. The findings of morphological 1960 (Mahdavi et al. 2018). This pest is more
studies confirmed the Petrobia sp. (Acari: prevalent in Rajasthan, Delhi, Madhya
Tetranychidae) and this is the first confirmed Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab. In India,
report of seasonal pests in wheat fields of since its first appearance in 1957, Petrobia
Gujarat State, India. It is a highly polyphagous
67
latens has spread widely in major growing Tetranychidae) from Ephedra sp.
areas of wheat in different states. This is a (Ephedraceae) in Iran. Systematic and
serious pest in dryland agriculture, reaching Applied Acarology, 23(6), 1148–
1154.
usually higher densities on wheat than on
barley. Coriander was also found infested by Murray, A. (1877) Economic Entomology,
this species. Population levels were highest in Aptera. London, Chapman and Hall,
March. It is most common under rainfed 433pp.
cultivation. Sharma & Srinivasa (2004)
published a comprehensive report about this Reck, G.F. (1948) Fauna of spider mites
(Tetranychidae, Acari) from Georgia.
species. Although, the pest is recorded on pearl
Trudy Zoologiches-kogoInstituta
millet crops, it may feed on other crops viz.,
Akademia Nauk Gruz S.S.R., 8, 175–
sorghum, wheat, cotton, vegetables etc. 185.
therefore it may be an emerging threat to other
agricultural crops as well. Sharma, A., & Srinivasa, N. (2004) Brown
wheat mite Petrobia latens (Muller)
Acknowledgement (Acari: Tetranychidae). All India
Network Project on Agricultural
We are thankful to Dr. A. B. Shukla, Acarology, UAS, Bangalore
Senior Acarologist, Professor and Head,
Department of Agricultural Entomology, N. Vyas, H. K., Betala, S. R., Baser, S. L., &
M. College of Agriculture, NAU, Navsari Sharma, S. K. (1973). Note on the
screening of new wheat varieties for
(Gujarat) for the help in identification.
resistance to the brown wheat-mite,
Petrobia latens (Muller) (Acarina:
References
Tetranychidae). Indian Journal of
Anonymous (2020). Food and agriculture Agricultural Sciences, 43(5), 521-
organization corporate statistical 522.
database of the United Nations.
Retrived from http://fao.org Wainstein, B.A. (1960) Tetranychid mites of
Kazakhstan (with revision of the
Mahdavi, S.M., Latifi, M., & Asadi, M. (2018) family). Trudy Nauchno -
A new species of Petrobia issledovatel's kogoinstituta Zashchita
(Mesotetranychus) (Acari: Rastenii Kazakhskaja, 5, 1–276.
MS Received on 3rd January, 2024

MS Accepted on 01st March, 2024
68
Obituary
DR. G. K. VEERESH
FORMER VC OF UAS-B AND AN EMINENT
ENTOMOLOGIST IS NO MORE
(04.04.1934 – 06.02.2024)
Dr. G. K. Veeresh, an agricultural entomologist of

international reputation and former Vice Chancellor of University
of Agricultural Sciences, Bangalore, (UAS-B), breathed his last on
Tuesday, 06 Feb 2024, at 11.45 A.M. owing to ill health related to
old age at his residence in Ganganagar, Bengaluru. He was nearing
90 years. He left behind his wife, two daughters and a son, all married, and their families.
Prof. Veeresh had earned the following academic qualifications: B.Sc. (Agri.), Mysore
University, 1957; M.Sc. (Agri.), IARI, New Delhi, 1960; and Ph.D., University of Agricultural
Sciences, Bangalore, 1973. He was a Postgraduate Fellow at Rothamsted Experimental Station,
U.K and Oregon State University, Corvallis, USA, during 1975.
Dr. Veeresh had started his professional career in 1961 and served as a lecturer at the
Agricultural College, Hebbal, Bangalore, during 1961-1967. He then served at UAS-B as Asst.
Professor of Entomology, 1967-1975; Prof. of Entomology, 1975-1982; Sr. Professor of
Entomology, 1982-1986; Head, Division of Plant and Soil Sciences, 1986-1994; Director of
Instruction (Agri.), 1988-1993; Dean, 1993-1994; ICAR Emeritus Scientist at UAS-B, 1994-95
and Vice Chancellor, UAS-B, 1995-1998.
While in active service and also after retirement, Dr. Veeresh had served in a number of
expert committees at the Central and State Govts as also in other organizations. He served as
President, International Union for Study of Social Insects, Indian Chapter, 1990. He was appointed
as Chairman of a High Power Committee (2001-2002) set up by Mr. S. M. Krishna, then Chief
Minister of Karnataka, to look into the causes responsible for a slew of farmers’ suicide that
occurred during three consecutive years. Dr. Veeresh was passionate about organic farming and
was one of the first few, way back in 1996, to champion its cause and popularise it among the
farmers. He had established the Association for Promotion of Organic Farming and served as its
Founder President from 2000. Govt. of Karnataka had appointed him as the Chairman of Mini-
mission on Organic Farming (2004). Dr. Veeresh was the Founding President of the Alumni
Association of the UAS-B at Hebbal. He strived hard to mobilize funds to construct the majestic
69
building of the Alumni Association. An auditorium has been named after him as “Prof. G.K.
Veeresh Auditorium” while he was still alive. He had donated Rupees Fifteen Lakhs to the Alumni
Association to be kept in Fixed Deposit in a bank and the interest utilized to award three farmers
annually who practiced Integrated Farm System (IFS). He also served as President of the Academy
of Music, Chowdiah Memorial Hall, Vyalikaval, Bengaluru, for six years up to 2017.
As an entomologist, Dr. Veeresh had distinguished himself in the area of root grubs and
soil fauna and their management. He also had special interest in the study of social insects. He
believed in extensive field work and also in research that can lead to solve farmers’ problems. He
was one of those responsible for developing the Dept. of Entomology as a strong unit at UAS-B.
He had received a number of prestigious awards at the state, national and international levels. The
Karnataka Govt. had bestowed upon him the Rajyotsava Award in 2016.
I had known Dr. Veeresh since around 1965 when he used to visit the erstwhile
Commonwealth Institute of Biological Control at Hebbal along with students where I was working
there. We became friends as entomologists and then, when I joined the Dept. of Entomology at
UAS-B as a staff, we became colleagues. Later, he was my guide for Ph.D. degree. We had always
maintained close contacts and remained lifelong friends. Dr. Veeresh was simple, smart, soft-
spoken, pleasant and very considerate. He had the knack of identifying the right people, building
70
teams and getting the work done. He was an outstanding organiser and an institution-builder. We
had worked together on many occasions including organising several seminars, Centenary Year
Celebration of Agriculture School, raising funds for the alumni association building, Global
Alumni Meet (Dec. 2015), etc. His students and friends are spread across the globe. In his demise,
we lost a gentle soul, a dynamic leader, a great motivator and an achiever. Om Shanthi.
T. M. Manjunath
Bengaluru
07 February 2024
71
INSECT LENS
Carpenter ant, Camponotus sp. (Formicidae: Hymenoptera)
Carpenter ants farm aphids and protect the aphids from predators (usually other insects) while
they feed on the sugary fluid excreta called honeydew from the aphids, which the ants get by
stroking the aphids with their antennae.
Author: Dr. Abraham Verghese

Location: Bengaluru, India
Email: [email protected]
72
Egg mass of Fall Army Worm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Noctuidae: Lepidoptera)
Cluster of fall armyworm eggs meticulously laid in mass on a leaf surface. The tightly packed
arrangement of the egg mass showcases the efficiency of the Fall armyworm's reproductive
strategy, as each egg has potential to hatch into a voracious caterpillar, posing threat to
agricultural crops.
Author: P. Nithin Sugas, Research Scholar, Department of Entomology, Coimbatore.

Location: Coimbatore
73
The carpenter bee, Xylocopa sp. (Apidae: Hymenoptera) on flower Thunbergia

The carpenter bee, Xylocopa sp., is known to suck nectar from the flowers of Thunbergia
grandiflora. Many carpenter bees "rob" nectar by slitting the sides of flowers with deep corollae.
With their short labia the bees cannot reach the nectar without piercing the long-tubed flowers,
and sometimes they miss contact with the anthers and perform no pollination.
Author: Dr. Nagaraj, D.N., Project Head (Entomologist) Ento. Proteins Pvt. Ltd., Mangalore
Location: Rangadore Memorial hospital, Shankarapuram, Basavanagudi, Bangalore
74
Green lacewings, Chrysopa perla (Chrysopidae: Neuroptera)
Some green lacewings can predate about 150 preys in their entire lives and in other cases 100
aphids will be eaten in a single week. Hence, in many countries, millions of such voracious
Chrysopidae are reared for sale as biological control agents of insect and mite pests in agriculture
and gardens. They are distributed as eggs, since they are highly aggressive and cannibalistic in
confinement. Their performance is variable; thus, there is scope of further research to improve the
use of green lacewings as biological pest control. Chrysopids can be attracted and conserved in
the farm by growing Asteraceae viz., calliopsis (Coreopsis), cosmos (Cosmos), sunflowers
(Helianthus) and dandelion (Taraxacum) and Apiaceae such as dill (Anethum) or angelica
(Angelica).
Author: Dr. Nagaraj, D.N., Project Head (Entomologist) Ento. Proteins Pvt. Ltd., Mangalore
Location: Bengaluru
75
Litchi stink-bug, Tessaratoma sp. (Tessaratomidae: Hemiptera)
They are usually metallic in colour, have large bodies and small heads. Most species spend their
lives on tree leaves and stems, and are phytophagus. They can secrete a foul-smelling liquid and
are generally slow moving, but can fly.
Author: Dr. M. A Rashmi
Identification: Dr S. Salini, ICAR-NBAIR, Bengaluru.
Location: Tiptur District, Karnataka
76
Brown-veined white, Belenois aurota (Pieridae: Lepidoptera)
Brown-veined whites roosting for the night until early morning as it migrated in Kenya from West
to East. Belenois aurota is a small to medium-sized butterfly found in South Asia and Africa. In
Africa, it is well known during summer and autumn when large numbers migrate north-east over
the interior.
Author: Dr. Sevgan Subramanian

Location: Nairobi National Park, Kenya (Feb, 2024)
77
Multitrophic interaction playing out at best
Trophic level 1: Associated Plant: Sunflower, Helianthus annuus (Asteraceae) - that provides
nectar and pollen for the honey bee, Apis mellifera (Apidae) (Trophic level 2). Flower crab spider,
Thomisus sp. (Thomisidae) (Trophic level 3) perfectly camouflaged with the sunflower to maximise
its successful ambush of visitors to the flower. Once the successful predation of the honey bee by
the flower crab spider has happened and the prey and the predator are locked, the Jackal flies
(Milichiidae) (Trophic level 4), true to its common name, tries to steal the hunt. The Jackal flies
consumes the exuding body fluids of the prey (honey bee) which is being extra-orally digested (the
liquefaction of the solid tissues of the prey by enzymes secreted and injected by the predator into
the prey).
Location: International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology, Kasarani, Nairobi (Feb, 2024)
78
Ichneumonid parasitoid parasitising, Syrphid predating on Aphids infesting Duranta hedge

plant

Location: Arba Minch, Ethiopia (March 2024)
79
Nymphs of Painted/Bagrada Bug, Bagrada hilaris (Pentatomidae: Hemiptera)
Bagrada bugs have five nymphal stages. Newly emerged first instars are bright red and have a
slightly darkened to black coloration on the pronotum, head, legs, and antennae; the abdomen
remains reddish and develops some black bands and white dots as the early nymphal stages
advance. They attack various vegetable crops, weedy mustards and several ornamental plants of
Brassicaceae such as sweet alyssum, stock, and candytuft.
Author: Satyabrata Sarangi
Location: Mandya, Karnataka – 571401, India (12.5218° N, 76.8951° E)
80
Indian Tawny Coaster Larva, Archea Terpsicore L. (Nymphalidae: Lepidoptera)
Acraea terpsicore can be seen in abundance wherever its larval food plant (Passiflora species) is
found. The caterpillars of a batch tend to feed gregariously and devour all soft tissue of the host
plant and becomes major menace to the passion flower plant. Like the adults, the caterpillar is
protected by the toxins, processed from the Passiflora species.
Author: Satyabrata Sarangi

Location: Malkangiri, Odisha – 764048 (17.4503° N, 78.5322° E
81
Mottled emigrant, Catopsilia pyranthe pyranthe (Pieridae: Lepidoptera)

The Mottled Emigrant is more often found in the fringes of the nature reserves where its host plant,
Seven Golden Candlesticks (Cassia alata) is found. Catopsilia is an energetic and has rapid
‘jumping’ flight and males have a tendency to puddle.
Author: Bapodariya Hemang Ghanshyambhai, B.Sc.(Hons) Agriculture, College of Agriculture,

Junagadh Agricultural University, Mota-bhandariya, Amreli
Location: College of Agriculture, JAU (Mota-bhandariya), Amreli, 365610
82
Eggs of Coccinellid Beetle, Coccinella septumpunctata (Coccinellidae: Coleoptera)
Eggs are tiny, elongated structures typically laid in clusters on the underside of leaves. These are
often yellow or white in colour and may have distinct ridges or patterns. Ladybug eggs are laid
near aphid colonies, as the larva emerges feed on these pests, making them beneficial for natural
pest control in gardens and agricultural settings.

83
Eggs of Pulse Pod Bug, Riptortus pedestris (Alydidae: Hemiptera)
Riptortus pedestris is a polyphagous agricultural pest and most damaging pests of soybean in East
Asia. They are also responsible for stay green syndrome in Chinese soybean.

84
Owl Moth, Erebus sp. (Erebidae: Lepidoptera)
Owl moth’s are distributed in large areas of Asia and Africa. They are exceptionally large with a
wingspan of about 12 cm. As their name suggests, the spots on their wings mimic the eyes of an
Owl as a behavioural adaptation to keep predators away.
Author: Ruchita Naidu D, Project Assistant, ICAR – National Bureau of Agricultural Insect
Resources, Hebbal, Bangalore, India.
Location: ICAR – National Bureau of Agricultural Insect Resources, Bangalore, India
85
Camouflaged grasshopper (unidentified)
Author: Mr. Rushikesh Rajendra Sankpal, Assistant Professor, Department of Biotechnology,

Abasaheb Garware College (Autonomous), Pune
Location: Warananagar, Dist- Kolhapur, State- Maharashtra
86
IE Extension
Pomegranate Management 2024 - Free Training Programme at Vijayapura, Karnataka by Dr BT Gore,

Leading Pomegranate Expert. Dalimb Ratna Mr. B. T. Gore, Founder of Farm DSS Agritech, trained over
700 pomegranate farmers from Karnataka and Andhra at Vijayapura, Karnataka, on 16 February. In this
Pomegranate Training (lasting 6 hours) he taught the Good Agricultural Practices of Integrated Nutrient,
Disease, Pest and Irrigation Management techniques. Organized by the Insect Environment Team.
Supported by Rashvee IPRS, Shreenidhi Agrochemicals Plant Clinic and ICL Pvt Ltd.
87
Dr BT Gore was awarded ‘Pomegranate Plant Health Award-2024’ by Insect Environment Team for his
passion for empowering farmers, coupled with his deep-rooted knowledge which has enabled farmers to be
enriched in the entire gamut of pomegranate farming technologies.
Dr Abraham Verghese, Fruit Fly Man of India, Former Director, ICAR-NBAIR, Former Head and Principal
Scientist, Division of Entomology, ICAR-IIHR and Dr G S Prakash, the grape expert and Former Head and
Principal Scientist, The Division of Fruit Crops, ICAR-IIHR, and Dr M. A Rashmi, CEO Rashvee-
International Phytosanitary Research and Services, Bengaluru were also present and interacted usefully in
the discussions.
88
Dr G S Prakash, the grape expert and Former Head and Principal Scientist, The Division of Fruit Crops,
ICAR-IIHR was awarded Grapes Plant Health Award- 2024 by Insect Environment Team
For exceptional contributions to the field of agriculture IE Team was also felicitated by ICL India PVT
LTD on 16th Feb 2024 at Vijayapura, Devanahalli, Bengaluru Rural
89
Dr Abraham Verghese, Former Director ICAR-NBAIR, Former Head Division of Entomology, ICAR-
IIHR, known as the fruit fly man of India was conferred with the Lifetime Achievements Award for his
committed and dedicated work towards the farming community for more than 4 decades and still
continuing. He was awarded the Lifetime Achievements Award in Research & Development in
Horticultural Sciences 2022-2023 by The Society for Horticultural Research and Development, India on
1st Feb 2024 at Jaipur
90
Plant health interventions require a new paradigm shift breaking away from the conventional package of
practices interfacing at the convergence of crops-insects-diseases. Apart from viruses more than 50% of
fungal and bacterial diseases are passively/ actively transmitted by plant-visiting insects. Glimpses of the
lecture on "Plant Health Intervention at the Plant-Insect-Pathogen Interface" -A Startup Story, by DST-
funded lecture series at the Division of Crop Protection, ICAR-IIHR, Bangalore on 26th Feb 2024
91
Insect Environment Editors Dr Abraham Verghese and Dr M A Rashmi participated at the International
Women's Day ceremony at Nexus Mall, White Field, Bangalore on 10th March 2024 organized by
Greenotsav Forum, Sparsha Foundation, and Nexus Mall as panelists on the theme "Clean environment and
healthy residue-free food through terrace gardening."
92
Dr. M A Rashmi, Co-Editor-In-Chief Insect Environment was awarded the “Women Excellence Award
2024” in the Agri-entrepreneur category on 10th March 2024 organized by Greenotsav Forum, Sparsha
Foundation, and Nexus Mall
Dr M. A Rashmi of Shreenidhi Plant health clinic with rural women hortipreneurs
93
Insect Environment participated in three-day Entomology students' conclave organized by the Entomological
Society of India in association with UAS Bengaluru, ICAR-NBAIR, hosted at the University of Agricultural
Sciences, GKVK, Bengaluru (Thanks to Dr. S.V Suresha, Vice Chancellor, Dr. Shivanna, Dr. Jemla Naik D and
staff of Entomology division, UASB). Picture with R.G Agarwal (Chairman, Dhanuka Group) and Dhanuka
team
Insect Environment team with International Editorial Advisor, Dr. Jose Romeno Faleiro, Former FAO
Expert, IPM Specialist (Red Palm Weevil), Middle East and South Asia
94
Pomegranate field visit with Dr. B T Gore
Dr. B.T Gore visits Shreenidhi Agrochemicals Plant Health Clinic, Vijayapura Devanahalli
95
IE team with Dr Brinda, General Manager, NABARD, Bangalore
Dr Abraham Verghese with Dr. Tolety Janakiram, Vice Chancellor of Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University,
Andhra Pradesh. Dr. Som Dutt (Managing Editor, Current Horticulture) Formerly Editor (Indian Journal of
Agricultural Sciences and Indian Horticulture) ICAR- DKMA, New Delhi.
96
Dr Abraham Verghese, honouring Padma Shri and Arjuna awardee Malathi Krishnamurthy Holla
International athlete
97

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Volume 27 (1) March 2024 ISSN 0975-1963

Abstract/ Full text uploaded in

An AtmaNirbhar ini a ve by Indian entomologists for promo ng Insect Science

Shree Nidhi Agrochemicals, Vijayapura, Devanahalli

Dr. Carlos A H Flechtmann, Department of Dr. P.V.R Reddy, Chief-Editor of Pest

Dr. Zinabhai Paragji Patel, Vice-Chancellor,

Mail your papers/notes/queries/photos related to Insect Environment

Armyworm population dynamics and damage assessment in rice agro-ecosystems

First report of the occurrence of red palm weevil, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus

Biology, morphometrics and mating behaviour of reduviid predator, Rhynocoris

Seasonal incidence of insect-pests affecting Aonla (Emblica officinalis Gaertn.)

Biology and morphometry of curry leaf tortoise beetle, Silana farinosa

Review articles & Short notes

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in entomology-Indian scenario

Climate variables affecting insect pests

First record of leaf-twisting weevil Apoderus tranquebaricus Fab. (Curculionidae:

First report of brown wheat mite, Petrobia sp. on wheat in Gujarat

13 Obituary of Dr G.K Veeresh by Dr T.M. Manjunath

Abraham Verghese Insect Environment Wishes You a Happy

Abraham Verghese Farm-gate Quarantine (FgQ) for Pest Free

Geerthana S and Invasive Rugose Spiraling Whitefly now on

Do Egg Parasitoids Control Rice Stem

5 Abraham Verghese 28.01.2024 Helico Conundrum

Abraham Verghese Palm Aphid on Coconut and Ornamental

Abraham Verghese Caterpillars Sweeping Through Mango

10. T. M. Manjunath 03.03.2024 Insect Pests have contributed to Careers!

11. Rashmi M.A 10.03.2024 Rural Women Hortipreneurs

N. B. V. Chalapathi Rugose Spiralling Whitefly Spreading to

Are Trichomes Gamechangers in Insect-

Dubai is always a wonder to me, an ultra-modern “urban

Keywords: Oryza sativa, Spodoptera mauritia, Spodoptera frugiperda, Spodoptera litura,

Introduction presents a significant risk to rice crops (Valdez

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) holds paramount A sampling strategy involved

Field surveys observed S. mauritia The larvae of S. Mauritia were found in

References Mochida, O., Joshi, R. C. and Litsinger, J. A.

/archives/2017/vol5issue4/PartZ/5-4- Assam. Indian Journal of Entomology,

l-doc/pleins_textes/pleins_textes_ climate change on natural enemies of

Adults of I. aegyptiaca were orange- Unidentified pests

Whitefly Aleuroclava complex Singh Cowbug (Hemiptera: Membracidae)

prominent export commodity in India, further

Sl. Common Nature of

1. Black looper Hyposidra talaca (Walker) Lepidoptera: Geometridae Defoliator

Pinnaspis strachani (Cooley) Hemiptera: Diaspididae

6. Whitefly Aleuroclava complex Singh Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae Sap feeder

7. Leafhopper Empoasca sp. Hemiptera: Cicadellidae Sap feeder

8. Bagworms Unidentified Lepidoptera: Psychidae Defoliator

9. Slug caterpillar Unidentified Lepidoptera: Limacodidae Defoliator

10. Cow bug Unidentified Hemiptera: Membracidae Sap feeder

11. Planthopper Unidentified Hemiptera: Flattidae Sap feeder

a. Hyposidra talaca b. Olene mendosa c. Cassida exilis

d. Myllocerus brevirostris e. Pinnaspis strachani f. Icerya aegyptiaca

g. Aleuroclava complex h. Empoasca sp. i. Bagworm

j. Slug caterpillar k. Cowbug l. Planthopper

Fig. 1a to 1l. New pests documented from curry leaf

Acknowledgments Goyal T. 2011. Taxonomic studies on family

MS Received on 10th January, 2024

Fig. 1. a, b, Rhynchophorus ferrugineus grub and weevil feeding on banana pseudostem;

Fig. 2. Severe infestation of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus on banana

This is the first report of RPW Kerala 2023.Statistical Wing,

GOK [Government of Kerala]. 2023. A