Effectiveness of various insecticides against key watermelon pests: A field study in Karnataka

Abstract

This study evaluated the efficacy of various insecticides against key watermelon pests, including Thrips palmi, Liriomyza trifolii, and Bemisia tabaci, in Kandavara village, Karnataka, from January to April 2021. Employing a randomized complete block design, the research applied insecticides at economic threshold levels using a knapsack sprayer. Pre- and post-treatment pest populations were recorded to assess effectiveness. For Liriomyza trifolii, Cyantraniliprole 10.26 OD exhibited the highest efficacy, achieving a 70.48% reduction in leaf mines, followed by Fipronil 5 SC. Against Bemisia tabaci, Thiomethoxam 25 WG was the most effective, reducing populations by 82.90%, with Diafenthiuron 50 WP and Fipronil 5 SC also showing strong results. In managing Thrips palmi, Fipronil 5 SC proved most effective with a 64.89% reduction, supported by Thiomethoxam 25 WG and Diafenthiuron 50 WP. The results highlight Cyantraniliprole 10.26 OD, Thiomethoxam 25 WG, and Fipronil 5 SC as potent options for integrated pest management (IPM) in watermelon cultivation, emphasizing their role in enhancing crop health and productivity while suggesting the need for strategic rotation and combination to prevent resistance.