Effects of Neem Azal T/S and other insecticides against the pistachio psyllid Agonoscena targionii (Licht.) (Homoptera, Psyllidae) under field conditions in Syria

Abstract

Different concentrations of Neem Azal-T/S, an insect growth regulator (IGR) (antiecdysone) and various other insecticides were tested against the pistachio psyllid (Agonoscena targionii) affecting pistachio (Pistacia vera L.), in northern Syria. From 1997 – 99, three applications were made annually, in April, May, June or July. Results revealed that Neem Azal-T/S, at the rate of 0.5 and 0.7 %, Flufenoxuron, Teflubenzuron, and the antagonistic fungus Beauveria bassiana Bals. were highly effective against the psyllid especially on the 1^st and 2^nd nymph instars in the April application. The possibilities of using these pesticides in integrated management against pistachio psyllid in Syria are discussed.