DefinePK

Abstract

Abstract | Mealybug species Drosicha mangiferae (Green) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) has become a serious pest of many horticultural crops including citrus. Population studies are important to understand the abundance, life history and estimating extinction probability. The present study was conducted in three localities (tehsils) of district Sargodha during 2017 to determine the population dynamics of D. mangiferae nymphs and adults on citrus plants. Results showed that the average population of mealybug nymphs (9.92 individuals per branch) and adults (14.55 individuals per branch) was higher in Bhalwal as compared to Kotmomin and Sargodha. The maximum population of nymphs (31.93 individuals per branch) was observed during April and the adult population was maximum (34.86 individuals per branch) during May. The nymphs and adults were remained lower in January and February. A positive but non-significant (P > 0.05) correlation of maximum and minimum temperature was observed with the nymphal population, while relative humidity showed negative but significant (P < 0.05) correlation. In case of mealybug adults, temperature had a positive and significant (P < 0.05) correlation, while relative humidity showed a negative and significant (P < 0.05) correlation. The findings of this study could be useful for local citrus growers in devising timely and suitable control strategies against D. mangiferae infestations on citrus plantations. Novelty Statement | This research work describes the prevailing population dynamics of mealybug Drosicha mangiferae (Green) (Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) on citrus plantations of district Sargodha and worked out its correlation with the abiotic weather factors. The findings of this study could be useful for local citrus growers in devising timely and suitable control strategies against D. mangiferae infestations on citrus plantations.