Sporadic outbreak of curry leaf tortoise beetle, Silana farinosa (Boheman) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) in Shivamogga, Karnataka, India

Abstract

Murraya koenigii (L.), an indigenous spice plant that belongs to family Rutaceae is highly valued for its aroma and medicinal value and is a basic ingredient in the southern culinary. Present study reports the infestation of white tortoise beetle, Silana farinosa (Boheman) (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae) on curry leaf at Kappanahalli village, Shivamogga, Karnataka. This is the first report of the sporadic outbreak of S. farinosa causing considerable economic damage to the plants. Besides, a brief note on different life stages and nature of damage on curry leaf is also provided with photographic illustrations.