Integrated Assessment of Pesticide Efficacy Against Aceria litchii (Keifer) in Litchi Orchards of Bihar, India

Abstract

This study evaluated the efficacy and toxicity of various pesticides against Aceria litchii (Keifer), a major pest threatening litchi production in Bihar, through integrated laboratory and field trials. Laboratory bioassays, based on a modified Voss–Dittrich method, determined LC₅₀ values and relative toxicity for nine pesticides, revealing that sulphur and dicofol exhibited superior efficacy with the lowest LC₅₀ values and highest relative toxicity, while tetradifon and malathion were less effective. Field evaluations conducted over two consecutive years on 10-year-old litchi trees corroborated laboratory findings, with sulphur (0.05%) and dicofol (0.05%) significantly reducing mite populations and leaf distortion compared to untreated controls. A modified algicidal trial further assessed commonly available algicides, demonstrating that wettable sulphur, sulphur combined with dicofol, and Bordeaux mixture effectively reduced both mite populations and subsequent leaf re-infestation. The findings underscore the potential of integrating sulphur and dicofol into pest management programs, while also highlighting the necessity for rotation strategies to prevent resistance. This comprehensive evaluation provides a valuable framework for sustainable control of Aceria litchii, ultimately contributing to improved litchi yield and quality.