BIOLOGY OF BRINJAL SHOOT AND FRUIT BORER (LEUCINODES ORBONALIS G.) IN LOW HILLS OF HIMACHAL PRADESH

Abstract

The brinjal shoot and fruit borer (Leucinodes orbonalis G.), a major pest in brinjal (Solanum melongena) cultivation, poses a significant threat to the yield and quality of eggplant worldwide. This insect pest, native to South Asia, has spread across various regions of Asia and Africa, causing severe economic losses. The pest shows a complex life cycle consisting of egg, larval, pupal, and adult stages. The pest attacks both the shoot and fruit of brinjal plants, leading to direct damage, reduced marketability, and loss of revenue for farmers. Studies shows that the pest can cause up to 60% to 70% reduction in yield and in severe infestation, significantly affects both the quality and quality of brinjal fruits. This study was conducted in the department of Entomology, College of Horticulture and Forestry, Neri (Hamirpur), Himachal Pradesh during the year of 2020-21. Our results show the pest’s ability to adapt to various environmental conditions, and its rapid reproduction rate make it challenging to control. This paper provides a complete understanding regarding the biology of brinjal shoot and fruit borer, with a particular focus on its life cycle.