Population trends of Athalia lugens proxima and their association with weather parameters in Indian mustard (Brassica juncea)

Abstract

Indian mustard (Brassica juncea) is a key Rabi oilseed crop in India, extensively grown across 6.07 million hectares during the 2022-23 season, with Uttar Pradesh contributing significantly. However, pest infestations, especially by the mustard sawfly (Athalia lugens proxima), pose serious threats to crop yield. A two-year field study (2022-23 and 2023-24) conducted at CSA University, Kanpur, monitored sawfly population dynamics on the 'Varuna' mustard variety under unsprayed conditions. The pest appeared in early crop stages and peaked during the 51st-52nd Standard Meteorological Week (SMW), with earlier and more severe infestation observed in the second year. Correlation analysis showed non-significant relationships between sawfly incidence and weather parameters (Temperature, rainfall, and humidity), while biotic factors had weak negative associations. The study concludes that climatic factors moderately affect pest incidence, but crop stage and microclimate also play important roles. These insights support the development of effective pest forecasting and eco-friendly management strategies.