Abstract
Pest infestation causes heavy loss to farmers; both in fields and in stores. This study evaluated the efficacy of biopesticides in management of potato tuber moths (PTM) under storage condition. The potato cultivars Khumal Seto-1, Janak Dev and MS-42.3 and biopesticides Bacillus thuringiensis , Acorus calamus , Azadirachta indica , Artemisia vulgaris were used at the rate of 5 g l −1 , 2 g kg −1 , 4 g kg −1 and 20 g kg −1 of potato tubers respectively; also, a control was set to compare the treatment effects. Tubers were coated with solution for Bacillus thuringiensis while for the remaining biopesticidial powder was dusted on tubers. The cv. Janak Dev had the lowest infestation points per tuber (8.13), emergence of PTM adults (19.77%), physiological loss in weight (26.03%), decay loss (17.89%) and tuber damage score (2.74). The biopesticide Acorus calamus had the least infestation points per tuber (2.56), infested eyes per tuber (0.17), emergence of PTM adults (1%), tuber damage index (2.24), physiological loss in weight (12.11%), decay loss (4%) and tuber damage score (1.36). Acorus calamus had reduced larval mining by 88% and eventually had reduced decay loss by 93% as compared to control. The parameters relating to damage indicated that the cv. Janak Dev was least susceptible among the tested cultivars and Acorus calamus provided the best protection against damage caused by potato tuber moth. • Natural plant products with insecticidal properties are effective against potato tuber moth. • Against potato tuber moth infestations, Acorus calamus has both deterrent and killing properties. • Acorus calamus can serve to minimize the infestation, cut down physiological weight loss as well as decay loss. • Acorus calamus can be incorporated along with other integrated pest management options for more effective management.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call