Evaluation of insecticides for the management of scale insect in mango (Mangifera indica).
Kumari D. A., Anitha V., Lakshmi B. K. M.
Author Affiliation: Grape Research Station, Dr. Y.S.R. Horticultural University, Rajendranagar, Hyderabad (A.P.), India.
International Journal of Plant Protection 7 : 64-66
Abstract : The mango scales, though a minor pest earlier, are gaining importance in the recent years infesting the leaves and fruits in mango. Four species of scale insects which include Aulacaspis tubercularis, Aspidiotus destructor, Ceroplastis rubens and Aonidiella aurantii were present in the mango ecosystem of which Aulacaspis tubercularis and Aspidiotus destructor were most commonly observed species at Fruit Research Station, Sangareddy. Scales were generally found on the upper or lower surface of leaves and also on fruits. Both the species attack and injure the older leaves and the attack on new flush is rarely seen. Scales not only affect the quantity but also quality of the mango fruit by causing blemishes on the fruits affecting the commercial value of the fruit and also their export potential. Hence a field experiment was conducted at Fruit Research Station, Sangareddy on mango var.Mahmooda Vikarabad to evaluate certain insecticides against mango scales (Homoptera: Diaspididae) during 2008-09 and 2009-10. Two sprays of Methyl parathion @ 2 ml/l at 15 days interval and Acephate 75WP @ 1.5 g/l and the spray of Imidacloprid @ 0.3 ml/l at 15 days after the first spray was found to be significantly superior to other treatments in management of scale insects in mango.