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VOL. 10, ISSUE 7 (2025)
Ecophysiological effects of psyllid-induced galls on chlorophyll content in host plants of South Goa
Authors
Vrushab S Mhapsekar, Digvijay V Lawate
Abstract
This study investigates the interactions
between gall-inducing insects and their host plants in South Goa, India,
focusing on the morphological and biochemical impacts of gall formation. Three
gall-inducing insect species—Pauropsylla depressa, Pauropsylla
tuberculata, and Phacopteron lentiginosum—were identified infesting Ficus
racemosa, Alstonia scholaris, and Garuga pinnata,
respectively. Fieldwork conducted from November to February identified Ficus
racemosa as the most heavily infested host, particularly in urban areas,
suggesting a potential correlation with heightened environmental stress. Gall
formation resulted in distinct leaf morphological changes, such as curling, and
significant biochemical alterations, as evidenced by a reduction in chlorophyll
content in galled leaves. Chlorophyll analysis revealed that galled leaves had
substantially lower concentrations of chlorophyll a, b, and total chlorophyll
compared to unaffected leaves. Specifically, Ficus racemosa exhibited a
decrease from 6.34 mg/L to 2.77 mg/L in total chlorophyll, Alstonia
scholaris from 5.40 mg/L to 3.18 mg/L, and Garuga pinnata from 6.45
mg/L to 4.75 mg/L. These results highlight the complex ecological dynamics of
gall formation and its potential impact on the physiological health of host
plants, emphasizing the need for further investigation into the broader
ecological consequences and implications for biodiversity conservation in Goa.
This study provides valuable insights into the effects of insect-plant
interactions and the role of gall-inducing insects in ecosystem functioning.
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Pages:19-25
How to cite this article:
Vrushab S Mhapsekar, Digvijay V Lawate "Ecophysiological effects of psyllid-induced galls on chlorophyll content in host plants of South Goa". International Journal of Entomology Research, Vol 10, Issue 7, 2025, Pages 19-25
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