TNAU Develops Capsule for Resisting Pest Attack on Coconut Crop

Tamil Nadu Agricultural University in Coimbatore has created an Integrated Pest Management capsule to combat the Rugose Spiralling Whitefly, a pest that poses a significant threat to coconut crops. The method comprises six strategies:

• The first of which is the installation of two light traps per acre during the evening. These traps are designed to attract all flying adult whiteflies, which are particularly active at night.

• The second strategy is the installation of yellow sticky traps at a height of six feet from the ground, designed to attract adult flies during the day.

• The third strategy is the release of encarsia parasitoids on leaves containing whitefly nymphs. These parasites will prevent the whitefly from laying eggs on the leaves.

• The fourth strategy is the release of predator eggs at a rate of 400 per acre.

• The fifth strategy involves spraying maida flour at a rate of 250 grams in 10 litres of water on sooty mould, which can help to remove the suppression of photosynthesis.

• The final strategy involves spraying water onto the ventral surface of the leaves to remove eggs, nymphs, pupae, and adult flies.

The efficacy of the integrated approach has been demonstrated through the successful implementation of all six strategies in a coordinated manner. The emphasis has been placed on collective action by farmers to adopt all six approaches.

The whitefly is known to cause significant damage to crops and has become a major concern for farmers. The Integrated Pest Management system developed by Tamil Nadu Agricultural University is designed to provide an effective and sustainable method for controlling the pest, without resorting to the use of harmful chemicals. By adopting a range of strategies, farmers can effectively manage the whitefly, reducing crop damage and improving yields.

Source-The Hindu

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