Assessment of losses caused by major insect-pests and diseases of mango (Mangifera indica L) under humid tropics

Abstract

A study spanning five consecutive years (2016-20) was conducted to evaluate the damages inflicted on mango crops in humid tropical regions by primary insect pests and diseases. The findings revealed that hoppers, thrips, and fruit flies were the primary pests, while powdery mildew, anthracnose (pre and post-harvest), and stem end rot (SER) were the dominant diseases affecting mango trees. Notably, the population of hoppers and thrips remained significantly lower in orchards with protective measures (1.84 hoppers/panicle and 1.73 thrips/panicle/tap, respectively) compared to those without protection (11.58 and 8.84, respectively). Similarly, the incidence of pre-harvest diseases such as powdery mildew (2.28%) and anthracnose (5.24%), as well as post-harvest diseases like anthracnose (3.00%) and SER (3.75%), was notably reduced in protected orchards compared to unprotected ones (7.28, 14.30, 7.25, and 8.50, respectively). On average, % yield loss of 47.33 was documented in unprotected orchards compared to protected ones. This assessment holds the potential for enhancing the management of major insect pests and mango diseases, offering valuable insights for agricultural advisory services to aid farmers effectively.