The host preference of Myllocerus curvicornis (F.) - a pest of coconut palm.
Ponnamma K. N., Abraham V. A., Kurian C., George M. V.
Author Affiliation: CPCRI, Regional Station, Kayamkulam, Krishnapuram 690 533, Kerala, India.
Agricultural Research Journal of Kerala 19 : 111-114
Abstract : The leaf disc feeding method was used in laboratory studies in Kerala, India, to determine the preference of Myllocerus curvicornis (F.), a pest of coconut, for 6 food-plants. The most preferred food-plant was Stylosanthes gracilis, followed by Gliricidia indica and mango. When the feeding rates on the plants were determined during different months, S. gracilis was markedly preferred in March and S. gracilis and G. indica were preferred in June, July and September. The data showed that S. gracilis and G. indica, which are grown as intercrops in coconut plantations, are the preferred food-plants of M. curvicornis and may serve as sources of infestation for coconut.