Population Dynamics of Mustard Aphid Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt) and its Coccinellid Predators

Abstract

Field experiments were conducted during 2021-2022 and 2022-2023 to determine the population dynamics of mustard aphid Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt) and its coccinellid predators on two mustard varieties viz. Rohini (highly susceptible) and RH0749 (least susceptible) in relation with different abiotic factors. The infestation was observed in last week of December to the first week of March, the overall mean indicates the incidence was at its peak in the second week of February. Maximum incidence of 160-120/ five plants was recorded on Rohini while 160-100/five plants on RH0749. The predatory activities of coccinellids viz., Cheilomenes sexmaculata (L), Coccinella septempunctata (F) and Coccinella transversalis (F) revealed significant positive correlation with aphid incidence.