Fri Nov 15 11:44:20 UTC 2024: ## Banana Mealybug Infestation Threatens Karur and Tiruchi Crops, NRCB Steps In
**Tiruchirappalli, November 15, 2024:** The ICAR- National Research Centre for Banana (NRCB) has launched a campaign to combat a severe mealybug infestation affecting banana crops in Karur and Tiruchi districts. Farmers have reported widespread damage, particularly impacting the Karpuravalli banana variety.
Mealybugs are known to cause significant damage to banana stems, leaves, and fruits, leading to reduced crop quality and yield. While heavy rains during the monsoon season can help control the pests, their impact intensifies during dry periods.
NRCB entomologists have visited affected fields in the Kulithalai area of Karur district to assess the situation, advise farmers on integrated pest management methods, and educate them about effective control strategies through various media channels.
The recommended integrated pest management approach includes targeting ant colonies as they contribute significantly to the spread of mealybugs. The NRCB advises farmers to eliminate ant colonies using chlorpyrifos 20 EC. Planting intercrops such as pulses and coriander can also help improve soil health and increase the natural predator population.
The NRCB also suggests applying fish oil rosin soap, cow urine, neem seed kernel extract, or neem oil to reduce mealybug populations. Biological control methods using entomopathogenic fungi like Akanthomyces lecanii or Beauveria bassiana can also be effective. For more severe infestations, the NRCB recommends spraying affected areas with Thiamethoxam 25% WG, Buprofezin 25 EC, or Spirotetramat 15.31 OD every 15 days.
“Mealybugs pose a significant economic threat to banana production in tropical regions,” said NRCB Director R. Selvarajan. “Adopting a combination of biological and chemical control methods is crucial for long-term pest management.”
First Piper 