Bio-effectiveness of insecticides against Spodoptera litura (Cutworm) in laboratory conditions
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64171/JAES.1.1.22-26Keywords:
cutworm caterpillar, Spodoptera litura, effectiveness of insecticidesAbstract
The present investigation was carried out in the laboratory of Department of Silkworm Laboratory, Government Model Degree College, Barakhal, Santkabirnagar during at Kharif season. Spodoptera litura (tobacco caterpillar/cutworm) is a major, highly polyphagous nocturnal pest affecting mulberry (Morus alba) in Asia, causing significant defoliation. Larvae cause "windowing" (leaf skeletonization) in early stages and total defoliation in later stages. Management includes handpicking, pheromone/light traps, and deep plowing. The larvae (caterpillars) feed on mulberry leaves, often leaving only the veins (skeletonization). They also cut young shoots, leading to stunted or branchless plants. Infestations are most common from August to February, with peak activity during winter months. The pest completes its life cycle in 30–40 days, consisting of egg, larva, and pupa stages. Six different insecticides along with one untreated control were taken for the investigation to test their bio-effectiveness against Cutworm caterpillar Spodoptera liura. The experiment was carried out incompletely randomized block design (CRD). All the treatments were replicated three times. Observations were recorded 12, 24 and 48hours photoperiod light a day after application of insecticides. The sample consisted of 20 larvae of cutworm caterpillar per replication. All the treatments were found superior over control. Maximum mortality percentage was recorded on Flubendiamide 12.0% WG (68.19%) which was superior, followed by Chlorantraniliprole 5% SG (58.61%) and Chlorpyrifos 50% SP (49.03%).Whereas, the least effective treatment was in Spinetoram 5.4%EC with (32.13%) minimum percentage of larval mortality.
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