Integrated management of litchi mite (Aceria litchii Keifer)

Abstract

Field trials were conducted consecutively for three years at AICRP Fruit Research Centre, Sabour, Bhagalpur, Bihar to develop eco-friendly, sustainable pest management approaches against litchi mite. Experimental results revealed that the treatment 2 comprising pruning of infested litchi twigs in June followed by spraying of dicofol @ 0.05% found to be the most effective in reduction (58.28 %) of litchi mite infestation as compared to other treatments. In addition to, it also obtained highest (44.24 kg/tree) yield and cost benefit ratio (1:5.78) than others. The next best treatment was T5 comprised pruning of infested litchi twigs in June followed by spraying of dimethoate @0.05% (42.63% reduction of litchi mite infestation and yield: 39.63 kg/tree). The information generated under the study can be incorporated in the pest management modules of litchi without disturbing the ecology of natural enemy and cropping system.