Bio-efficacy of Certain Chemicals against Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae)

Abstract

Asiatic citrus psyllid (ACP), Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae) is identified as a major pest of citrus in subtropical and tropical Asia. Citrus greening disease or Huanglongbing (HLB) is found to be the most serious disease of citrus in the world, causing the highest economic loss. Diaphorina citri Kuwayama is the only known vector of Huanglongbing. Intensive insecticide programs against Asian Citrus Psyllid are generally ineffective for preventing the introduction and spread of Huanglongbing, especially in new plantings. Extensive pesticide applications are causing psyllid resistance and probably damage to bees and beneficial insects. So, it is important to devise Integrated Pest Management schemes that minimize the amount of pesticides applied, especially neonicotinoids and other broad-spectrum materials. An integrated strategy involving both  biological and chemical control tactics is required for sustainable management of the pest to reduce disease spread. Some biological agents which control the D. citri such as lady beetles, lacewings and spiders are all well known as predators. Therefore, the present investigation had been aimed to study the biology and efficacy of various chemicals, both, solely and in combination, viz., Bifenthrin, Lambda cyhalothrin, Azadirachtin (neem oil), Cypermethrin + Profenofos, Deltamethrin + Triazophos and Quinalphos under laboratory conditions against D. citri as management strategies of an insect pest must be based on thorough ecological studies of the concerned insect pest.