Rashtriya Krishi (English)

Anjitha George ¹, C. N. Rao ¹, V. N. Dhengre ¹

Affiliations
1 ICAR-Central Citrus Research Institute, Nagpur (M.S.), IN

Abstract

Currently, India ranks third amongst the citrus producing countries with a production of 100 lakh tons from 9.85 lakh hectare and a productivity 12.8 tons/ha at national level. The productivity and quality of citrus is severely affected by several factors; insect pests being one of them. As many as 250 insect species have been reported attacking citrus of which a dozen of them are of economic importance. Management of these sucking insect pests at the right stage drastically helps to reduce the overload of insecticidal sprays thereby assists in sustaining the productivity of the orchard. Sucking insect pests like citrus psylla, blackfly/ whitefly, aphids, thrips and leaf miner are among the important pests of three flushing seasons in citrus viz., Ambia (February-March), Mrig (June-July) and Hasta (October-November). Identification of insect pest, incidence and damage symptoms are critical for implementing appropriate control measures.

Full Text

     

Anjitha George ¹, C. N. Rao ¹

Affiliations
1 Division of Entomology, ICAR-Central Citrus Research Institute, Nagpur (M.S.), IN

Abstract

Introduction: Mites (Acari) are arthropods, a group that includes insects, spiders and among them, different mite species cause considerable damage in citrus. There are major four mite families relevant to citrus viz., Tetranychidae, Tenuipalpidae, Tarsonemidae and Eriophyidae. It is a serious pest of citrus in Vidarbha region, especially during Ambia (February-March) and Hasta (October-November) seasons. Citrus mites are more active on new growth of citrus plants, especially in the late spring and early fall. Populations will also be higher during summer due to the higher temperatures and humidity.

Full Text