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VOL. 9, ISSUE 3 (2024)
Dynamics of the weaver ant, Oecophylla smaragdina, and its biocontrol potential on the tea mosquito bug, Helopeltis antonii V.Signoret in cashew
Authors
C Shanmuga Priya, T Nalini
Abstract
The weaver ant, Oecophylla smaragdina (Fabricius), constructs a
nest using living leaves, and it fiercely predates pests. This research
investigates the involvement of the weaver ant, O. smaragdina, in
managing the tea mosquito bug (Helopeltis antonii), a significant pest
affecting cashew. The primary aim of this study is to assess the viability of
using ants as a biocontrol agent in managing pests in cashew crops. A thorough
examination of ant nest dynamics, bug-induced damage patterns was conducted in
the cashew orchard where trees naturally hosted ant nests. Trees with ant nests
exhibited notably reduced insect damage. The fluctuation in nest numbers was
extensively discussed, considering factors such as leaf pavilion (single-leaf
nests), green nests (active), and dry nests (abandoned) over time. The
beneficial impact of weaver ants in minimizing Helopeltis damage vividly
illustrates their potential and promising effectiveness in pest management
interventions.
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Pages:51-55
How to cite this article:
C Shanmuga Priya, T Nalini "Dynamics of the weaver ant, <i>Oecophylla smaragdina, </i>and its biocontrol potential on the tea mosquito bug, Helopeltis antonii V.Signoret in cashew". International Journal of Entomology Research, Vol 9, Issue 3, 2024, Pages 51-55
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