Studies on the management of mealybugs on grapes
Name of PI with associates
Ms. S. Salini, Scientist (Entomology)
Dr. D.S. Yadav, Scientist (Entomology)
Dr. S.D. Sawant, Principal Scientist (Plant Pathology)
Objectives:
To survey the mealybugs and their natural enemies to know the current status in the major grape growing areas.
To study the influence of weather parameters on mealybugs and to develop prediction modules.
Evaluation of promising bioagents in the control of mealybugs.
Evaluation and utilization of different botanicals for the control of mealybugs.
Evaluation of new generation molecules for mealybugs
Safety of different molecules to the key natural enemies of mealybugs.
To refine the integrated pest management strategy
Duration:
1 April 2008 to 31 March 2011
Highlights:
This project is aimed at studies on the management of mealybugs in grapes. This project is also aimed at surveying mealybugs and their seasonal incidence and establishing its relationship with weather parameters and to develop prediction modules. More emphasis will be given to biological control in order to reduce the load of insecticides on grapes. Field evaluation of the bioagents, botanicals and the insecticides will be carried out. The laboratory studies will be conducted to evaluate the compatibility of the pesticides to the bioagents. The ultimate aim of the project is to bring out an integrated pest management package for mealybugs in grapes.
Total outlay: Rs. 23.42 lakhs