SURVEILLANCE OF EXORISTA BOMBYCIS L. A POTENTIAL PEST OF FC1 AND FC2 BREEDS OF BOMBYX MORI L. WITH REFERENCE TO KOLHAPUR DISTRICT OF MAHARASHTRA

Abstract

The Maharashtra is a non-traditional state with respect to sericulture activity. It has tremendous potential since environmental conditions are favorable for promotion of mulberry sericulture as a profitable activity. Moreover, this is the most economical activity as compared to other agricultural crops in Hatkangale taluka of Kolhapur. Several multivoltine and bivoltine races of B. mori Linn. are reared by the farmers in the district. However, expected yield and quality of cocoons have not been achieved so far because of infestation by tachind fly a major pest of silkworm. In the present study it is noticed that, the Uzi fly Exorista bombycis is a major pest of silkworm. The primary survey of Exorista bombycis as natural enemies of B. mori was conducted in all three seasons at Yalgud village of Kolhapur district of Maharashtra during 2016-2017. In the 3rd stage at weekly interval, 4th stage and 5th stage observation on infestation were made at alternate day. It was found that, Uzi fly is commonly noticed in sericulture crops as compared to other pests. In the present survey also it is noticed that, more damage was observed in bivoltine breeds (FC1 and FC2). The study revealed that, the percent damage was ranged between 9.84 to 22.03 percent in FC1 whereas 13.80 to 28.33 percent was in FC2 breed. Overall infestation and more crop loss were prominently observed during the winter season as compared to summer and rainy seasons. Details are discussed and also suggestions for future course of work to be undertaken on IPM of Uzi fly are being included.