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VOL. 10, ISSUE 8 (2025)
Incidence, survival, and biology of Thylacoptila paurosema (Meyrick) (Pyralidae: Lepidoptera) on Senna occidentalis in Northern India
Authors
Ram Singh
Abstract
Thylacoptila paurosema
(Meyrick) (Pyralidae: Lepidoptera), commonly known as the cashew apple
and nut borer, is a widely distributed pest known to infest Anacardium
occidentale and, occasionally, Senna occidentalis in southern India.
However, its presence and biology have not been reported from Northern India
until now. This study documents the first confirmed incidence, survival, and
developmental biology of T. paurosema on S. occidentalis in the
National Capital Region (NCR), Delhi. Surveys conducted from May to December
2024 in South West Delhi and Gurugram revealed notable larval activity,
including leaf webbing and pod boring, with estimated 4 to 5 overlapping
generations. Larvae initially feed on leaflets during the vegetative phase and
later on infest developing pods, resulting in up to 20% pod damage. Biological
observations under controlled conditions showed that the larval stage lasted 10
to12 days, the pupal stage 5 to 6 days, and adult moths lived for 3 to 4 days.
These findings highlight the pest’s adaptability to alternative hosts and
environmental conditions beyond its traditional range, raising potential
concerns for its future spread and impact on leguminous plants in northern
regions.
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Pages:9-11
How to cite this article:
Ram Singh "Incidence, survival, and biology of <i>Thylacoptila paurosema</i> (Meyrick) (<i>Pyralidae: Lepidoptera</i>) on <i>Senna occidentalis</i> in Northern India". International Journal of Entomology Research, Vol 10, Issue 8, 2025, Pages 9-11
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