Apionidae: Coleoptera - ETD | Electronic Theses and Dissertations ...

MANAGEMENT OF Apion amplum (Faust.) 

(Apionidae: Coleoptera) IN GREENGRAM 

Thesis submitted to the 

University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad 

in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the 

Degree of 

Master of Science (Agriculture) 

In 

AGRICULTURAL ENTOMOLOGY 

By 

TAMOGHNA SAHA 

DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURAL ENTOMOLOGY 

COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURE, DHARWAD 

UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES, 

DHARWAD - 580 005 

JUNE, 2009

Advisory Committee 

DHARWAD (R. K. PATIL) 

JUNE, 2009 MAJOR ADVISOR 

Approved by : 

Chairman : ____________________________ 

(R. K. PATIL) 

Members : 1. __________________________ 

(K. BASAVANA GOUD) 

2. __________________________ 

(SHEKHARAPPA) 

3. __________________________ 

(H. B. BABALAD)

CONTENTS 

Sl. No. Chapter Particulars 

CERTIFICATE 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT 

LIST OF TABLES 

LIST OF FIGURES 

LIST OF PLATES 

1 INTRODUCTION 

2 REVIEW OF LITERATURE 

2.1 Incidence and natural enemy complex of Apion amplum 

2.2. Evaluation of biopesticide and non chemical approaches 

for the management of Apion amplum 

2.3. Evaluation of insecticides against Apion amplum 

3 MATERIAL AND METHODS 

3.1. Incidence and natural enemy complex of Apion amplum 

(Faust) 

3.2. Evaluation of biopesticides and non chemical approaches 

for the management of Apion amplum under laboratory 

and field condition 

3.3. Evaluation of new molecules against Apion amplum 

4 EXPERIMENTAL RESULTS 

4.1. Incidence and natural enemy complex on greengram 

ecosystem 

4.2. Evaluation of biopesticides for the management of Apion 

amplum 

4.3. Evaluation of botanicals for the management of Apion 

amplum 

4.4. Evaluation of insecticides for the management of Apion 

amplum: 

5 DISCUSSION 


5.2 Management of A. amplum with biopesticides and 

botanicals 

5.3 Management of A. amplum by insecticides 

6 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS 

REFERENCES 

APPENDIX

Table 

No. 

LIST OF TABLES 

Title 

1 Details plant extracts used against A. amplum 

2 Incidence of Apion amplum in greengram under conventional 

ecosystem 

3 Incidence of Apion amplum in greengram under Organic ecosystem 

4 Efficacy of Beauveria bassiana on adult mortality of A. amplum 

5 Evaluation of biopesticides against Apion amplum (Adults) under 

laboratory condition 

6 Evaluation of biopesticide against Apion amplum in greengram under 

conventional ecosystem 





9 Effect of biopesticides on pod and seed damage of greengram due to A. 

amplum 

10 Effect of biopesticides on grain yield in greengram under conventional 

ecosystem 

11 Evaluation of biopesticides against Apion amplum in greengram under 

organic ecosystem 

12 Evaluation of biopesticides against Apion amplum in greengram under 


13 Effect of biopesticides on pod and seed damage of greengram due to A. 

amplum under organic ecosystem 

14 Effect of biopesticides on grain yield in greengram under organic 

ecosystem 

15 Evaluation of botanicals against Apion amplum (Adult) under laboratory 

condition 

16 Evaluation of botanicals against Apion amplum in greengram under 






Contd……

Table 

No. 

Title 

19 Effect of botanicals on pod and seed damage of greengram due to A. 

amplum 

20 Effect of botanicals on grain yield in greengram under conventional 

ecosystem 





23 Effect of botanicals on pod and seed damage of greengram due to A. 


24 Effect of botanicals on grain yield in greengram under organic 

ecosystem 

25 Evaluation of insecticides against Apion amplum (Adult) under 


26 Evaluation of novel insecticides against Apion amplum in greengram 

under conventional ecosystem 





29 Effect of Insecticides on pod and seed damage of greengram due to A. 

amplum under conventional ecosystem 

30 Effect of biopesticides on grain yield in greengram under conventional 

ecosystem

Figure 

No 

LIST OF FIGURES 

Title 

1 Seasonal incidence of Apion amplum in green gram under 


2 Seasonal incidence of Apion amplum in green gram under 


3 Evaluation of biopesticides against A. amplum under laboratory 

condition 

4 Evaluation of biopesticide against Apion amplum in green gram 

under conventional ecosystem- 3rd spray 

5 Evaluation of pod damage and yield against Apion amplum 

through biopesticide 

6 Effect of botanicals against grubs and adults of A. amplum in 

greengram under conventional system 


through botanicals in conventional ecosystem 

8 Evaluation of insecticide against A. amplum under laboratory 

condition 

9 Effect of insecticides against grubs and adults of 

A. amplum in greengram 


through insecticide

Plate 

No. 

LIST OF PLATES 

Title 

1 General view of experimental site in greengram ecosystem 

2 Layout of experimental site in greengram ecosystem 

3 Adult Apion amplum infected by Beauveria bassiana 

4 Adult Apion amplum nibbling the pods 

5 Shot holes symptom caused by Apion amplum

1. INTRODUCTION 

Agriculture is the backbone of Indian economy with 75 per cent of the people 

depending on agriculture for their livelihood. Agriculture accounts for about 30 per cent gross 

domestic products. But agricultural production is almost stagnant for past one decade, even 

the growers are optimally using all essential inputs for production of various economically 

important crops. Total cropped area in India is about 160 million hectares; out of them pulses 

are the most important food crops after cereals. India ranks first in both area and production 

of all important pulses grown during Kharif, viz. bengalgram, redgram, greengram, blackgram, 

mothbean, cowpea etc. Among these crops, a lot of research work has been reported 

specially on greengram, blackgram, and pigeonpea. 

Pulses constitute the major source of dietary protein of larger section of vegetarian 

population of the world. Being the cheapest source of protein, pulses form an inseparable part 

of Indian diet. Beside their high nutritional value, pulse crops have a unique characteristic due 

to tap root system, have capacity to tolerate drought of maintaining and restoring soil fertility 

through biological nitrogen fixation and thus play a vital role in sustainable agriculture 

(Asthana, 1998). In marginal soils, pulses are generally grown as both sole and inter crop 

during Kharif, Rabi, and summer seasons. 

India is the largest producer and consumer of pulses in the world accounting for 33 

per cent of world area and 24 per cent of world production. At present in India, the total area 

under pulses is 22.14 million hectares with a total production of 13.14 million tonnes and 

average productivity is 594 kg per hectare (Anon., 2007). 

Infact, the past two decades there has been stagnation in the production and 

productivity of pulses in India. The per capita availability of pulses has declined from 64 

g/capita/day in 1951 – 56 to less than 40 g/capita/day as against the FAO /WHO's 

recommendation of 80g/capita/day (Asthana and Chaturvedi, 1999). The target of total pulse 

requirement for production by 2010 AD would figure about 16.20 million tonnes. 

The important legumes grown in India are bengalgram, redgram, greengram, 

blackgram, cowpea, lentil, and peas. Among the grain legumes, green gram (Vigna radiata 

(L.) Wilczek) is the well known leguminous crop of Asia. The greengram (Vigna radiata (L.) 

Wilczek) is one of the thirteenth food legumes grown in India third most important pulse crop 

of India after chickpea, and pigeonpea. It has many common names, viz., mung, moong, 

mungbean, goldengram, and oreganpea (Chatterjee and Randhwa, 1952). It belongs to family 

legumunoseae. The origin of cultivated greengram is Indo-Burma region of Southeast Asia. 

The crop is fully self fertile and self pollinated. Well drained loamy and sandy loam soils are 

best suited for greengram cultivation. It prefers tropical and subtropical climatic condition. In 

India it was covering an area of 2.92 million hectares with total production of 1.42 million 

tonnes. The average productivity is 486 kg per hectare (Anon., 2005). The major greengram 

producing states are Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Bihar accounting 

for about 70 per cent total production of country. 

In Karnataka, greengram occupies an area of 3.6 lakh hectares with a total 

production of 1.6 lakh tonnes. The average productivity is only 208 kg per ha which is almost 

less than half of the national productivity, thereby indicating that there is a wider scope to 

improve the production potential (Anon., 2007). 

Pulses are more popular because their nutritional quality and growing in multiple 

cropping system like mixed crop, inter crop and also it is short duration. Pulses are grown as 

a green manure and fodder crop. 

As regards nutritional quality, greengram contains amino acid, lysine, which is limiting 

in cereals. Because of its nutritional quality it may be called as “queen of pulses”. Vitamins 

are also playing an important role in case of pulses. Vitamins are vitamin B1, vitamin B3 

(niacin), vitamin B6, and vitamin B2 which are essential in carbohydrate metabolism.

The low yield of greengram in Karnataka may be attributed to a wide variety of 

factors, among which ravage by insect pests is of paramount importance. A number of insect 

pests belonging to different orders have been recorded in various parts of the world. In India, 

64 species have been reported attacking greengram right from seedling stage up to pod 

formation stage (Lal, 1985). The more important insect pests which are attacking on 

greengram, are cutworm (Agrotis segetum D and S), stem fly (Ophiomyia phaseoli Tryon), 

Bihar hairy caterpillar (Spilarctia obliqua Wlker), tobacco caterpillar (Spodoptera litura F), 

sphinx moth (Agrius convolvuli L), grey weevil (Myllocerus discolour Boheman), gram 

caterpillar (Helicoverpa armigera Hubner), spotted pod borer (Maruca testulalis Geyer), blue 

butterfly (Lampides boeticus L), soybean pod borer (Cydia ptychora Meyrick), and seed 

weevil (Apion amplum Faust). 

Among the insect pests, Apion amplum (Faust) (Apionidae: Coleoptera) has gained 

major importance on greengram and blackgram in recent years. This pest causes damage to 

leaves of greengram, blackgram, and cashew. It can cause damage to an extent of 22 to 49 

per cent pod damage (Ayyar, 1940). Adults affect developing embryo and pupate inside the 

pods. Adults emerge from the pods by making circular exit hole in blackgram (Basavana 

Goud and Vastrad, 1994). Adults feed on the flower buds and also make brownish 

discoloration on tender pods known as egg laying punctures. Grubs feed on the seeds inside 

the pods, which caused more than 70 per cent seed damage in greengram in northern 

transitional belt of Karnataka (Sharanabasappa, 2003). 

Eventhough Apion amplum (Faust) poses a serious threat to greengram cultivation. 

Scanning of literature revealed that attempt made by earlier worker is very few. Therefore, the 

present investigations are carried out to fill up following lacunae on the natural enemy 

complex and different management strategies. Therefore, the present investigation was 

undertaken with the following objectives: 

1. Studies on incidence and natural enemy complex of Apion amplum 

2. Evaluation of biopesticide and non chemical approaches for the management of 

Apion amplum under laboratory and field conditions, and 

3. Evaluation of insecticides against Apion amplum under laboratory and field condition

2. REVIEW OF LITERATURE 

The review of literature on seed weevil, Apion amplum (Faust) and other related 

species pertaining to taxonomy, seasonal incidence, natural enemy, and management 

through different approaches are presented below. 

Biology 

The biology of the pest was studied in detail on greengram under laboratory 

conditions. The incubation period ranged from 3 to 5 days. Larvae completed its development 

in 14.1 days. Pupation occurred with in the pod and pupal period ranged from 7 to 9 days. 

During July to September, 47 to 63 days were required for the egg to reach adult stage. 

Female lived for 34.4 days compared to males (24.2 days). Oviposition period of 3 to 5 days 

and egg laying capacity of female varied from 9-16 days (Sharnabasappa, 2002) 

Taxonomy 

The weevil belongs to family Apionidae of the super family curculionidae, which is an 

important pest of pulses. Apionidae differs from curculionidae with respect to antennae. In 

Apionidae, antennae are clubbed type while in curculionidae they are geniculate (Hill, 1994). 

Nature of Damage and Symptom 

A. amplum infestation on greengram starts with appearance of flower buds at 30 to 

40 days after sowing. Both grubs and adults were found as damaging stage. The adults feed 

by remaining on the lower surface of the leaves causing shot holes. As a result, numerous 

minute holes could be seen on the severely damaged leaves. Adult feeds on the tender pods 

and make number of punctures on the pod with its snout for egg laying. Adults were also seen 

feeding on flower buds. On hatching, grubs fed on the seed inside the pod. In case small 

seeds entire seed was eaten up. The grubs caused damage by feeding the embryo of the 

seed. Pupation took place inside the pod. Adults come out from the pod by making circular 

holes with their snout (Sharanabasappa, 2002). 

Alternate host plants 

The different alternate host plant of Apion amplum reported by different scientists is 

presented below. 

Common name Botanical name Family Place (s) Author (s) 

Blackgram Vigna mungo 

(L.) Hepper 

Greengram Vigna radiata 

(L.) Wilczek 

Soybean Glycine max (L.) 

Merrill 

Cowpea Vigna sinensis 

L. 

Redgram Cajanus cajan 

(L.) Millsp 

Cashew Anacardium 

occidentale L. 

Leguminoseae Coimbatore 

Dharwad 

Leguminoseae Mysore 

Coimbatore 

Ayyar (1940) 

Katti (1984) 

Basavana Goud 

and Vastrad 

(1994) 

Ayyar (1940) 

Katti (1984) 

Sharanabasappa, 

(2002) 

Umesha (2006) 

Leguminoseae Dharwad Adimani (1976) 

Katti (1984) 

Leguminoseae Dharwad Katti (1984) 

Leguminoseae Jorhat Gupta (1993) 

Anacardiaceae Mysore 

Nagaon 

Nair (1975)

2.1 Incidence and natural enemy complex of Apion amplum 

2.1.1. Incidence 

The incidence of A. amplum related literature on greengram is scanty. Hence, the 

reviews of A. amplum and related species based on seasonal incidence on other crops have 

given below 

2.1.1.1. A. amplum on greengram 

Katti (1984) noticed that A. amplum attacked the greengram during pod formation 

stage. The Average number of weevils per sweep was 20.45 adults in September. The 

weevils persisted till harvest of the crop. The pest was also noticed in the fields of cowpea 

and blackgram at the harvesting stage. 

Sharanabasappa (2002) found that crop sown during first fortnight of July had the 

maximum pod (55.62%) and seed (62.20%) damage due to seed weevil, which was 

significantly higher than other date of sowing .While, the first fortnight of August sown crop 

had the least damage of 24.14 and 27.80 per cent to the pods and seeds, respectively. 

Umesha (2006) reported that crop sown in July recording the highest number of 

weevils per pod 6.96, per cent pod damage (63.30%) and per cent seed damage (69.68%) 

followed by crop sown in June (46.66 and 51.13) and August (38.66 and 44.33) pod and seed 

damage against A. amplum in greengram.. 

2.1.1.2. A. amplum on other legume 

Adimani (1976) noticed the incidence of A. amplum on soybean crop during June to 

January. The number of adult per sweep did not exceed except during month of October, on 

an average of six adults were found per sweep. 

Basavana Goud and Vastrad (1994) reported that A. amplum attacked the pods of 

blackgram during July to September. The peak activity of A. amplum on pigeon pea was 

during last week of February to second week of March with mean larval number ranging from 

7.23 to 7.37 per plant (Akharuri et al., 1996). 

2.1.1.3. Other species of Apion on different legumes 

Dhuri and Singh (1983) from Delhi observed that Apion sp. occurring during flowering 

and pod formation stage on blackgram in Kharif season. 

Sinha and Yadav (1983) from Dholi, Bihar, reported that A. claIvipes damage on cv. 

Bahar of pigeonpea sown in September was generally less (7.5 to 24.5% pod damage) than 

that of July sown late cultivar (31.5 to 59.5%). 

Das and Singh (1998a) from Barrack pore noticed that Corchorus olitorious L. and 

Corchorus capsularis L. varieties of jute sown in late April recorded minimum incidence by A. 

corchori Marshall, A. clavipes showed increasing tendency on redgram from second week of 

January to February with a mean number of larvae varying from 7.23 to 7.97 per plant. 

Thereafter, there was sharp fall in number touching the lowest level of 1.50 larvae per plant 

by the end of March when the crop attained maturity. 

Das (2001) reported that early sown jute variety had higher incidence of A. corchori 

than late sown crop. Peak number of A. claIvipes was noticed in last week of March (15.60 

larvae/ plant), when the crop reached near maturity in pigeonpea (Akhauri et al., 2001). 

Sunil kumar et al. (2003) studied on the number of borer species on pigeon pea A. 

claIvipes. The larval number per plant gradually increased from February (7 th standard week) 

to first half of April (13 th standard week). The maximum and minimum temperature and 

relative humidity recorded at morning and evening was found to be higher population of that 

larval number.

2.1.2. Natural enemy complex on Apion amplum 

There is no natural enemy related information available about A. amplum. So some 

Aipon spp and other Aipon related species information about natural enemy are given below. 

Tudor and Brudea (1979) noticed that Clover grown for seed in Transylvania, Banat 

and Northern Moldavia in Romania is severely damaged by Apion spp., which causes yield 

losses of 20-60%. Natural enemies represent an important factor in limiting their populations. 

The results conducted during 1973-75 in Moldavia on the parasitisation of Apion spp. by 

chalcidoids in clover fields. The parasite species found on Apion spp are Pseudotorymus 

apionis (Mayr) on A. apricans Hbst. and A. craccae (L.) on red clover, Eurytoma curculionum 

Mayr on A. apricans and A. trifolii (L.) (aestivum Germ.) on red, white and zigzag clover, 

Trichomalus helvipes (Wlk.) on Apion spp., and Tetrastichus epicharmus (Wlk.) (Geniocerus 

variegatus (Szeleny)) on A. apricans. Combined rates of parasitism observed on A. apricans 

and A. aestivum in Romania were 0.9-5.4% in 1973, 0.2-1% in 1974 and 0-1.9% in 1975. 

Perez (1985) reported that a survey was carried out to determine the parasites 

associated with Apion godmani and A. aurichalceum, which are important pests of wild and 

cultivated Phaseolus vulgaris and P. coccineus in the region of Tepoztlan, Morelos, Mexico. 

Six species of hymenopterous parasites were found parasitizing the larvae: 2 braconids 

(Bracon sp. and Triaspis sp.), a pteromalid (Zatropis sp.), a eupelmid (Cerambycobius sp. 

[Eupelmus sp.]), a eurytomid (Eurytoma sp.) and an unidentified eucoilid. 

Cockerham et al. (1952) reported that Beauveria globulifera (Speg) was recorded on 

the adults of sweet potato weevil Cylas formicarius (Coleoptera: Apionidae). This fungus was 

considered not economically very important. 

Jayaramaiah (1970) reported that during the course of investigation Beauveria sp. a 

fungus was observed to be parasitic on grubs of C. formicarius (Coleoptera: Apionidae) in 

nature; however, it could not to be identified up to species level for want of sufficient material. 

Maeto and Uesato (2007) reported that a new species of braconid, Bracon yasudai 

(Maeto et Uesato). nov., is described here from the south-west islands of Japan. It is a 

solitary idiobiont ectoparasitoid of the larvae of the West Indian sweetpotato weevil, Euscepes 

postfasciatus (Curculionidae), and the sweetpotato weevil, Cylas formicarius (Brentidae), both 

feeding on Ipomoea batatas (L.) (Convolvulaceae). The percentage parasitism of the braconid 

on E. postfasciatus in the vines of I. batatas was 19.9-40.7% in the field. Bracon cylasovorus 

(Rohwer) reared from C. formicarius in the Philippines is also described. 

2.2. Evaluation of Biopesticide and Non chemical approaches for 

the management of Apion amplum 

2.2.1. Biopesticide approaches for the management of Apion amplum 

Sharanabasappa (2002) found that among the biopesticides evaluated, Metarrhizium 

anisopliae proved superiority by recording minimum pod and seed damage (31.00% and 

37.33%) against A. amplum followed by B t var Kurstaki pod and seed damage (38.33% and 

45.33% respectively). 

Adane et al (1996) observed that the virulence of ten isolates of Beauveria bassiana 

to Sitophilus zeamais (Coleoptera: Curculionidae) was tested in the laboratory. All isolates 

tested were capable of infecting S. zeamais but their virulence, determined by adult 

mortalities and median lethal time, varied. 

Yasuda et al. (1997) found that Beauveria bassiana infected adults of the sweet 

potato weevil Cylas formicarius irrespective of temperature between 15 and 31 0 C. No 

infection was observed at relative humidity less than 43 per cent. 

Das and Singh (1998a) reported that among the microbials, Bacillus thuringiensis 

was found effective against A. corchori in jute.

Prasad et al (2002) also reported that foliar application of endosulfon @400 ml per ha 

mixed with fungal culture of Beauveria bassiiana @10 -10 spore suspension per ml at 14 

weeks after sowing was effective in the management of A. corchori . 

2.2.2. Non chemical approaches for the management of Apion amplum 

Mallick and Banerji (1986) noticed that Eupatorium odoratum leaf extract 0.5 per cent 

and stem extract (0.01%) showed Antifeedent property against adults of jute stem weevil A. 

Corchori upto 48 hrs. 

Btudea (1996) reported that sole application of NSKE 5 per cent, cow dung, and cow 

urine are not found effective in managing the pod borer complex of pigeon pea. However, 

their combinations alone or with half dose of insecticides have been observed to have good 

impact in managing the pest. 

Stem extract at 2 per cent concentration of E. odoratum recorded 9.33 per cent 

mortality of grey weevil (Myllocerus discolour) under laboratory condition. However neem oil 

(3ml/l) recorded 21.62 per cent plant infestation as against 30.68 per cent in the untreated 

check (Anon., 1997). 

Das and Singh (1998b) reported that among the botanicals neem oil was found 

effective against A. corchori in jute. 

Akhauri and Yadav (1999) reported that neem oil (2%) and NSKE (5%) proved 

effective against A. clavipes lowering the pod damage by 29.5 and 28.4 per cent, respectively 

over untreated check. 

Sharanabasappa (2002) reported that Nimbicidine 5 ml/l was found more effective 

yield (5.44 q/ ha) followed by NSKE 5 per cent (4.71 q/ ha) was the next best to control A. 

amplum but Fenvalerate 4 per cent, a standard check was recorded higher grain yield (5.97 q/ 

ha) than other treatment. 

Balatogi (2004) reported that neem oil (2%) exhibited maximum repellency (38.53%) 

followed by NSKE (34.74%), sweet flag (21.10%), pongamia oil (20.11%). and Vitex negundo 

L. (19.21%) respectively against, A. collaris in pigeonpea. 

Das et al. (2004) reported that application of neem oil @ 5ml and 6ml per 1 lt of water 

was effective in the management of A. corchori with least percentage of (14.64 and 14.62) 

damage to the jute plants and also recorded fibre yield of 22.29 and 23.34 q per ha, 

respectively. 

2.3. Evaluation of Insecticides against Apion amplum 

Trechova (1971) reported that of 0.3 per cent Sevin (Carbaryl) or 0.2 per cent Rogar 

(Dimethoate) gave effective control of Apion sp. And increased yield by 69 and 50 per cent, 

respectively in the red clover. 

Das and Singh (1977) observed the effectiveness of five sprays of several 

insecticides applied at 15 days interval when the crop was 56 days old to control A. corchori. 

Among different insecticides, leptophos one per cent gave effective control and maximum 

fibre yield in jute. 

Sigvald (1975) reported that the application of (0.5 kg per ha) fenitrothion and 

methoxychlor (2.4 kg per ha) on June 10 th after clover had started flowering was found 

effective in controlling of A. dichorum on red clover (Trifolium pratense). 

In Syria, Thahan and Hariri (1981) studied that the application of carbofuron @ 1500 

g per ha in furrow at sowing, followed by application of carbofuron @ 750 g per ha on 21 st 

January and four spray of fenitrothion @ 500 g per ha at fortnight intervals between early 

flowering and maturity reduced the damaged caused by Sitona limosus (Rossi) and Apion sp. 

on faba beans (Vicia faba). This has increased the yield from 1781 to 2295 kg per ha.

Kgaevskaya and Toropkova (1983) reported that application of diazinon (10%) 

(Basudin) granules, 1.6 per cent dimethoate and 2 per cent lindane (gamma-HCH) @ 50 kg 

per ha in the management of Apion sp. on clover indicated that diazinon 10 per cent was 

found effective in managing the weevil with least number of (18) larvae compared to 46.5 

larvae in untreated plot. Application of PP-321 [1 alpha (S*), 3 alpha (Z)] – (+or-) – isomer of 

cyhalothrin] was found effective in the control of weevils A. apricans (Gruenholz and Enjanes, 

1986). 

Das et al. (1986) from Barrackpore reported that Fenvalerate 0.005 per cent 

decamethrin (0.005%) and cypermethrin (0.001%) showed cent per cent mortality of A. 

corchori under laboratory condition. However, Fenvalerate 0.003 per cent recorded 18.57 per 

cent plant infestation whereas in control it was 32.10 per cent against jute stem weevil in field 

condition. 

Bjorkman (1987) studied susceptibility of A. apricans, A. trifoli, and A. varipes to 

methoxychlor, cypermethrin, deltamethrin, and Fenvalerate. Among these four chemicals, 

Fenvalerate was found effective in managing A. apricans in pigeonpea. 

Sinha and Srivastava (1989) studied that three sprays of monocrotophos (0.04%), at 

flower initiation, maximum flowering and 50 per cent pod formation gave the most effective 

control of the pod borers (A. clavipes, H. armigera, Melanogromyza obtusa (Mall) in 

pigeonpea and resulted in the maximum grain yield of 34.98 q per ha; followed by two sprays 

of endosulfan (0.07%) at maximum flowering and 50 per cent podding resulted in grain yield 

of 32.84 to 33.20 q per ha. Tome et al (1991) studied that sunflower sprayed with ethyl 

parathion @ 1.12 kg a.i. per ha during June and July was found effective in controlling A. 

occidentale. 

Singh et al. (1991) reported from Dholi, Bihar during 1984-85 in pigeonpea 

application of fenitrothion @ 1 kg a.i. per ha gave a greater cost: benefit ratio than 

monocrotophos at the same dosage against M. obtuse and A. clavipes. 

Bhat et al. (1988) reported that application of monocrotophos (0.05%) was found 

effective in controlling pod borer complex of greengram which recorded 32.74 per cent pod 

damage, followed by quinalphos (0.05%) and NSKE (5%), which recorded 38.00 and 40.70 

per cent pod damage, respectively. With respect to yield, monocrotophos was found effective 

with 1153 kg per ha. 

Bennett and Harding (1993) reported that significant control of A. soleatum wagner 

was achieved three and five days after treatment with triazophos (130 g a.i. /ha) and 

deltamethrin (6.25 g a.i. /ha) in cotton. 

Application of cypermethrin was found effective with more than 90 per cent control of 

Apion sp. in Lucerne (Gimeno and Perdiguer, 1995). 

Braudea (1996) reported that most efficient products were Superset 10 EC (of 

unspecified component) @ 0.15 lit per ha, Victinon 50 WP (bensultap) @ 1.5 kg per ha and 

NTN 20 EC (of unspecified composition) @ 0.2 lit per ha in management of Apion sp in 

pigeon pea. 

Das and Singh (1999) opined that among chemical insecticides endosulfan (0.075%) 

was most effective aginst A. corchori in jute. 

Pathak (2000) noticed that monocrotophos treated plots had the lowest pod 

infestation (20%) by A. clavipes on pigeon pea cv. Local Tripura followed by endosulfan, 

carbaryl, and dimethoate treated plots. Among all the treatments, monocrotophos treated plot 

recorded highest grain yield of 508 kg per ha.

The field experiments on control of sweet potato weevil, C. formicarius indicated that 

dipping of sweet potato vines in monocrotophos (0.05%), dimethoate (0.10%), Chlorpyriphos 

(0.05%) acephate (0.50%) and Fenvalerate (0.01%) before planting followed by spraying at 

30 and 45 days after planting effectively reduced the vine and tuber damage and increased 

the tuber yield. Among insecticides evaluated, monocrotophos and Fenvalerate were highly 

effective with cost benefit ratio of 1:1.6 and 1:1.9 respectively (Chiranjeevi et al., 2002). 

Nayak et al. (2004) observed that endosulfan (0.07%) spray at flowering, maturity and 

poding stage was effective in reducing the incidence of Apion sp. With least number of (0.4) 

weevils per sweep on blackgram. 

Lakshmi et al. (2002) studied that the application of spinosad (0.005%) was most 

effective against Maruca vitrata Fabricius recording highest mean per cent larval reduction 

(63.99%) over untreted control in Urdbean. 

Bhoyar et al. (2004) found that Spinosad 2.5 SC (25 g a.i. /ha) and endosulfan 35 EC 

(0.07%) were the most promising treatments in terms of per cent pod damage (11.85 and 

17.80, respectively) by the pod borer complex of pigeonpea. 

Abhilash (2005) reported that the lowest pod damage due to soybean pod borer, 

Cydia ptychora (Meyrick) was recorded with lamda cyhalothrin @ 1 ml per 1(13.22%) 

spinosad 0.2 ml per 1 (13.58%) and Indoxocarb 0.5 ml per 1 (14.47%). With respect to yield, 

significantly highest grain yield was recorded with spinosad(14.26 q per ha) which was on per 

with lamda cyhalothrin (14.12q per ha), emamectin benzoate (13.60 q per ha), and 

Indoxocarb (13.58 q per ha). 

Sharanabasappa (2002) reported that among the chemicals evluated, Fenvalerate 

(0.4%) dust showed least of pod (14.00%) and seed (16.00%) damage against A.amplum in 

greengram. With respect to yield also, Fenvalerate treatment recorded higher yield of 5.97 q 

per ha as compared to nimbicidine (5 ml/l) 5.44 q per ha respectively. 

Umesha (2006) reported that evaluation of different insecticides, Fenvalerate (20 kg/ 

ha), spinosad (0.2 ml/l) and chlorpyriphos (2 ml/ l) were found effective in reducing weevil 

numbers, pod and seed damage by A.amplum in greengram. But among them Fenvalerate 

(20 kg/ ha) was found more effective in reducing weevil numbers, pod (17.33%) and seed 

(19.00%) damage by A.amplum in greengram followed by spinosad (0.2 ml/l) and spinosad 

(0.2 ml/l). However, when cost effectiveness was considered, Fenvalerate dusting (1:2.23) 

sprays proved better in recording higher B:C ratio followed by chlorpyriphos (1: 1.86) .

3. MATERIAL AND METHODS 


(Faust) 

3.1.1. Incidence of Apion amplum (Faust) 

To study the seasonal occurrence of A. amplum, a field experiment was laid out in a 

randomized block design with untreated plot replicated thrice. A greengram variety 

‘Chinamung’ was sown at a 30 × 10 cm in 5 m × 3m 2 plots. The greengram was sown during 

Kharif season in July 2008 at Main Agricultural research station, University of Agricultural 

Sciences, Dharwad. 

The whole plot was exposed to natural infestation and no insecticides were applied. 

In each treatment five plants were randomly selected and tagged. Observations were made 

on the weevil damage at different date of sowing at weekly interval starting from 15 days after 

sown still harvesting of the crop. 

3.1.1.1. Weevil numbers per plant 

In each replication, 5 plants were randomly selected and tagged. Observations were 

made on the numbers of weevils per plant at different days after sowing. 

3.1.2. Natural enemy complex on Apion amplum (Faust) 

The observations were also made in the unsprayed plot. All infested pods and leaves 

were collected from unprotected plot. The infested pods and leaves collection were made at 

flowering stage or 30 DAS till harvesting of crop at weekly interval. After collection, observed 

for natural enemy complex in the infected pods and identify them. For predators observation 

was made in the field itself (Both insect & non insect predator). Damaged pods were brought 

to the laboratory and kept in the cages for the emergence of the parasitoids and observed 

them. 

3.2. Evaluation of biopesticides and non chemical approaches for 

the management of Apion amplum under laboratory and field 

condition 

3.2.1. Use of biopesticide for the management of Apion amplum 

3.2.1.1. Mass multiplication of A. amplum in the laboratory 

Field collected eggs were surface sterililized with 10 per cent formaldehyde, washed 

3-4 times with distilled water to get disease free larvae and kept in Petri plate (5 cm diameter) 

for hatching on moist filter paper. Freshly hatched larvae were provided with green gram pods 

in transparent plastic rearing container and covered with muslin cloth. Food was changed 

twice a day till pupation. Before pupation larvae were transferred to another container with 

sterilized saw dust. Pupae were kept for adult emergence in cages. Dilute honey (10%) was 

provided as adult food in small vial with cotton wad and green gram with plant pods were kept 

in conical flask with water placed inside the cage for egg laying. Adult weevils were taken up 

for further laboratory studies. 

Each treatment was replicated thrice with 10 adults/infested pod per replication. 

Mortality of A. amplum adults was recorded at 3 days interval till the death of all adults.

Different biopesticide properties like, Beauveria bassiana @ 2 g/l, & 4 g/l, 

Metarrhizium anisopliae @ 2 g/l, & 4 g/l, and Bacillus thuringiensis 1ml/lt, evaluated against 

A. amplum adults in the laboratory. The greengram leaf discs were dipped in desired 

concentration of treatments for thirty seconds then placed under fan till the surface became 

dry and kept in container (10 × 6 cm) slantingly on moistened filter paper at the bottom to 

prevent drying up of leaves. The adults collected from stock culture were starved for 6 hours 

and released on treated leaves @ 10 per treatment in three replications. The container was 

covered with muslin cloth fastened by rubber band. In control, leaf disc was dipped only in 

water. The treated leaf discs were changed successively every day till termination of 

experiment. 

3.2.1.1.1. Mass multiplication of Metarrhizium anisopliae 

Mass multiplication of M. anisopliae was done on potato 200 g, Dextrose 20 g, Agar 

20 g and Tap water 1lt. At first scrub the potatoes clean- do not peel them, cut in to 

approximately 12 mm cubes and weigh out 200 g of the cubes. Then rinse rapidly in running 

water and place in 1 l of water. Afterwards boil until very soft. Then mass and squeeze as 

much pulp as possible through a fine sieve. Next add sugar and boil until dissolved and add 

dextrose, stir until dissolved. Afterwards make the mixture up to 1 l again with water and 

sterilize for 20 minutes at 15 psi (pound per square inch pressure) in an autoclave or pressure 

cooker. At last conidia count per gram was found out by using haemeocytometer. 

3.2.1.1.2. Mass multiplication of Beauveria bassiana 

Mass multiplication of B. bassiana was done on broken rice. 50gm of broken rice was 

taken in saline glass bottle (360ml) and added 50 ml of 1% yeast extract solution prepared in 

distilled water, soaked over night and sterilized under autoclave at 15 PSI for 30 min. 

Afterwards cooled, inoculated with 2 ml spore suspension (10 6 conidia/ml) under laminar 

airflow and incubate at room temperature (25 ± 1 0 c) condition for 20 days at >80% RH. 

Afterwards harvest and air dried the digested material. At last it is used as a Biopesticide and 

conidia count per gram was found out by using haemeocytometer. 

3.2.1.2. Field study against A. amplum in greengram ecosystem 

The field experiment was conducted during Kharif season using chinamung variety of 

green gram. The crop was raised by following recommended package of practices except 

plant protection measures. Randomized block design was adopted with three replications with 

an individual plot size of 5m × 3m for each treatment. The B. bassiana @ 2 g/l, & 4 g/l, M. 

anisopliae @ 2 g/l, & 4 gm/lt, Bacillus thuringiensis 1ml/lt and fenvalerate (standard check) 

0.005% were imposed by using knapsack sprayer. Three sprayings were taken up first at 20 

DAS, second at 50 % flowering and third at seven days after pod setting under conventional 

system and two spraying were taken up at one 50 % flowering and second at 7 days after pod 

setting under organic ecosystem. The observation on number of adults and grubs of A. 

amplum per plant was recorded on ten randomly selected plants in each treatment a day 

before and 3, 5, and 7 DAS of each spray. The per cent larval reduction over initial population 

was worked out. The observations on number of damaged pods and healthy pods per plant 

were recorded on 10 randomly selected plants in each treatment. The per cent pod damage 

by A. amplum was worked out. After harvesting the crop, individual plot yield recorded and 

expressed in quintals per ha.

Plate 1 : General view of experimental site in greengram ecosystem 

Plate 2 : Layout of experimental site in greengram ecosystem

Treatment details for bio pesticides experiment: 

Sl No Biopesticide used Dosage 

T1 Bacillus thuringiensis 1 ml/l 

T2 Metarrhizium anisopliae 2 g/l (2× 10 8 conidia/ gm) 

T 3 Metarrhizium anisopliae 4 g/l (4× 10 8 conidia/ gm) 

T4 Beauveria bassiana 2 g/l (2× 10 8 conidia/ gm) 

T5 Beauveria bassiana 4 g /l (4× 10 8 conidia/ gm) 

T6 Fenvalerate 10 Ec (0.005%) 0.5ml/l 

T 7 Control. 

3.2.2. Non chemical approaches for the management of Apion amplum: 

3.2.2.1. Laboratory: 

All different types of extracts viz, aqueous and seed kernel extracts were prepared in 

the laboratory. Mortality of A. amplum adults was recorded at 3 days interval till the death of 

all adults and procedure previously mentioned (3.2.1.1.). 

3.2.2.1.1 Neem Seed Kernel Extract: 

50 gram of crushed seed of neem was tied in muslin cloth and kept in a container 

over night in 500 ml of water, squeezed through muslin cloth and the filtrate was made up to 

one litre by adding fresh water which was worked out to be 5%. It was used for spraying 

under field condition by adding 0.25 g soap powder to get uniform mixture. 

3.2.2.1.2. Agniastra: 

Ingredients: 

Neem leaves - 10 kg 

Tobacco leaves - 3 kg 

Garlic bulbs - 3 kg 

Green chilli (crushed) - 4 kg 

Soak all the gradients 20 l of cow urine for 10 days. Stir the contents thrice a day. 

After 10 days filtered the solution and was used for spraying. This can be stored for three 

months. 

3.2.2.1.3. Preparation of 5 per cent aqueous extract 

Fresh leaves of different plants were (Table 1) collected and brought to the 

laboratory, washed thoroughly 3-4 times with tap water, and they were chopped in to small 

pieces with knife. 50 gm of the chopped leaves were soaked over night in enough water, 

squeezed through muslin cloth and residue was smashed in mortar and pestel, again 

extracted and filtered through muslin cloth and volume was made up to one liter and used for 

spraying.

Table 1: Details plant extracts used against A. amplum 

SL. No Botanical name Common name Plant part used 

1 Vitex negundo 

2 Achorus calamus 

Indian pivet Leaf 

Bhaje Leaf 

3 Calotropis gigentia Giant milk weed Leaf 

4 Adathoda vesica 

5 Agave americana 

3.2.2.1.4. Preparation of 2 per cent Neem oil 

Adsali Leaf 

Kattale Leaf 

Commercially neem oil was procured commercially from the market and two per cent 

was prepared by diluting technique and 0.10 per cent soap solution was added to the solution 

as a detergent for getting uniform solution. 

3.2.2.2. Field study against A. amplum in greengram ecosystem 

A field experiment was conducted during Kharif season 2008 at Main Agriculture 

research station, university of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad. Randomized block design was 

followed with 11 treatments and three replications. The crop was sown with a spacing of 

30cm between rows and 10 cm between plants in a plot size of 5m x 3m with all agronomic 

practices as given in package of practices except plant protection measures. Application of 

bio agents, plant products and neem based insecticides were taken up by using high volume 

knapsack sprayer. The volume of the spray solution used 500 litres per ha. Three spraying 

were taken up one at 20 DAS, second at 50 % flowering and third at 7 days after pod setting 

under conventional system and two spraying were taken up at one 50 % flowering and 

second at 7 days after pod setting under organic ecosystem. Observation was recorded on 

number of adults/grubs/plants damaged pods/plant a day before and 3, 5, and 7 days after 

each spraying. Numbers of pod damaged from total pods were collected from 20 

plants/treatment and were counted and per cent incidences were worked out. Similarly the 

per cent seeds damage were worked by counting the number of seeds and damaged seed 

out of 20 pods sampled in each treatment, in each replication. The per cent values were 

transformed in to angular transformation before the data were subjected to statistical analysis. 

When the crop mature that were harvested individually from each net plot and weight of grain 

yield was recorded. The data will be statistically analysed by Duncans Multiple Range Test 

(DMRT). 

Treatment details for botanicals experiment: 

Sl. No Botanicals used Dosage used 

T 1 Neem oil 2%, 

T2 

T3 

T4 

T5 

T6 

T7 

NSKE 5%, 

Vitex negundo 5%, 

Cristol 56 SL 1% 

Cristol 56 ML 1% 

Agniastra 10%, 

Achorus calamus 5%, 

T8 Calotropis gigentia 5%, 

T 9 

Adathoda vesica 5%

T 10 

T11 Control 

Agave Americana 5% 

3.3. Evaluation of new molecules against Apion amplum 

3.3.1. Laboratory: 

Insecticidal properties of different treatments were studied on adult of A. amplum. The 

greengram leaf disc were dipped in desired concentration of treatments for thirty seconds 

then placed under fan till the surface became dry and kept in container (10 × 6 cm).The adults 

were collected from stock culture were starved for six hours and released on treated leaves 

@ 10 per treatment in three replications. The container was covered with muslin cloth 

fastened by rubber band. In control, leaf disc was dipped only in water. The treated leaf discs 

were changed successively day till termination of experiment. 

3.3.2. Field study against A. amplum in greengram ecosystem 

A field experiment was conducted during Kharif season 2008 at MARS, University of 

Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad. Randomized block design followed with nine treatments and 

three replications. The crop was sown with a spacing of 30cm between rows and 10 cm 

between plants in a plot size of 5m x 3m with all agronomic practices as given in packages of 

practices except plant protection measures. Application of new molecules was taken up by 

using high volume knapsack sprayer. The volume of the spray solution used was 500 litres 

per ha. Three spraying were taken up one at 20 DAS, second at 50 % flowering and third at 7 

days after pod setting under conventional system and two spraying were taken up at one 50 

% flowering and second at 7 days after pod setting under organic ecosystem. Fenvalerate 

(0.005%) was used as a standard check. Observation was recorded on number of 

adults/plants a day before and 1, 3, and 5 DAS. No of pods damaged from total pods 

collected from 20 plants were counted and per cent incidences were worked out. Similarly the 

per cent seed damage was worked out by counting the number of total seeds and damaged 

seeds out of 20 pods sampled in each treatment. The per cent values were transformed in to 

angular transformation values before the data will subjected to statistical analysis. When the 

crops mature, it was harvested individually from each net plot threshed and weight of grain 

yield was recorded and statistically analysed by Duncans Multiple Range Test (DMRT). 

Treatment details for new molecules 

Treatment Chemical name Trade name Dosage used 

No 

T1 Spinosad (48SC) Sucess 0.2 ml/l. 

T2 Novaluron (10EC) Remon 1 ml/l. 

T 3 Profenofos (50EC) Curacron 2 ml/l. 

T4 Emamectin benzoate (5SG) Proclaim 0.25 g/l 

T 5 Thiodicarb (75 WP) Larvin 1 g/l 

T6 Fenvalerate (standard check) (10EC) Fenval 0.5ml/l 

T7 Indoxacarb (14.5 SC) Avaunt 0.5 ml/l 

T8 Methomyl (40 SP) Lannate 0.6 gm/l 

T9 Control

4. EXPERIMENTAL RESULTS 

The results of the investigations carried out on seed weevil, Apion amplum Faust with 

regard to seasonal incidence, natural enemy complex and management of the pest using 

biopesticides, botanicals, and novel insecticides on greengram under field condition at the 

Main Agricultural Research Station (MARS), University of Agricultural Sciences, Dharwad 

during kharif season of 2008-09 are presented below. 

4.1. Incidence and Natural enemy complex on greengram 

ecosystem 

4.1.1. Incidence 

The results on the incidence of seed weevil A. amplum per plant at different days 

after sowing are presented in Table 2 and 3. 

4.1.2. A. amplum (seed weevil) 

The incidence of A. amplum was observed in crop sown during two dates of sowing. 

The population of A. amplum ranged from 2.80 to 6.40 weevils per plant in the crop sown on 

4.07.09 (Table 3). The population increased gradually and reached peak during 30 and 45 

DAS (5.40 and 6.40 weevils /plant) of the crop. Similarly on the crop sown on 12.7.09 the 

population of A. amplum ranged from 3.00 to 6.40 weevils per plant (Table 2), highest level of 

population was recorded at 30 and 45 DAS (5.60 and 6.40 weevils /plant). Like wise in crop 

sown on 20.7.09 the population of A. amplum ranged from 2.40 to 5.80 weevils per plant 

(Table 3) and highest level of population was recorded at 30 and 45 DAS (4.80 and 5.80 

weevils /plant). Similarly on the crop sown on 24.7.09 the population of A. amplum ranged 

from 2.60 to 5.80 weevils per plant (Table 2) and highest level of population was recorded at 

30 and 45 DAS (4.80, 5.80 weevils /plant). The crop sown on 4.07.09 and 12.7.09 recorded 

significantly higher incidence of grub and adult 4.63 and 4.57 weevils per plant followed by 

crop sown on 20.7.09 and 24.7.09 which recorded 3.77 and 4.13 weevils per plant. It was 

observed in the study that maximum weevil numbers recorded first and second week of July 

sown crop. 

4.1.3. Natural enemy complex on greengram ecosystem 

Different dosage of Beauveria bassiana applied on A. amplum. Among the different 

dosage, 10 7 conidia/ g was recorded cent percent mortality after 10 days observation followed 

by 10 6 (80%) (Table- 4). As the concentration of B. bassiana increased from 10 4 to 10 7 

conidia/ g, the morality of adult beetles also increased at different days after treatment. 

4.2. Evaluation of Biopesticide for the management of Apion 

amplum 

4.2.1. Evaluation of Biopesticide against A. amplum under Laboratory 

condition 

Different biopesticide were evaluated for their efficacy on adult of A. amplum in vitro 

(table-5). The result furnished in table indicated that, Bacillus thuringiensis recorded cent per 

cent mortality eleven days after spraying followed by Beauveria bassiana 4 g/l (90%) and 

Metarrhizium anisopliae 4g/l (76.67%). Other two treatments Beauveria bassiana 2 g/l 

(56.67%) and Metarrhizium anisopliae 2g/l (43.33%) showed less mortality compare to other 

treatments after eleven days of observation. Present study revealed that B. thuringiensis 

showed highest mortality among biopesticides followed by Beauveria bassiana (4 g/l) and 

Metarrhizium anisopliae (4g/l).

Table 2: Incidence of Apion amplum in greengram under conventional ecosystem 

Date of sowing 

12.7.08 

24.7.08 

Mean no of weevils / plant 

Adults Adult and Grubs 

15DAS 30DAS 45DAS 60DAS 75DAS 90DAS 

3.40 

(2.10) 

3.20 

(2.05) 

5.60 

(2.57) 

5.20 

(2.49) 

6.40 

(2.72) 

5.80 

(2.61) 

5.00 

(2.43) 

4.60 

(2.35) 

4.60 

(2.35) 

4.20 

(2.27) 

3.60 

(2.14) 

3.20 

(2.05) 

Mean 

4.77 

(2.40) 

4.37 

(2.31) 

SEM ± 0.07 0.05 0.09 0.09 0.06 0.08 0.03 

CD 5% 0.26 0.20 0.37 0.35 0.25 0.32 0.11 

CV % 10.28 7.06 12.82 12.93 9.23 12.77 4.01 

Figure in the parenthesis are √ x + 1 transformed values. 

DAS: Day After Spraying


12.7.08 24.7.08 


Mean no of weevils/plant after spraying 

Fig. 1. Seasonal incidence of Apion amplum in green gram under conventional ecosystem

Table 3: Incidence of Apion amplum in greengram under Organic ecosystem 

Date of 

sowing 

4.7.08 

20.7.08 

Mean no of weevils / plant 

Adults Adult and Grubs 


3.60 

(2.14) 

3.00 

(2.00) 

5.20 

(2.49) 

4.80 

(2.41) 

6.40 

(2.72) 

5.80 

(2.61) 

5.00 

(2.45) 

4.40 

(2.31) 

4.40 

(2.31) 

3.80 

(2.17) 

4.00 

(2.22) 

3.00 

(1.99) 

Mean 

4.80 

(2.41) 

4.13 

(2.26) 

SEM ± 0.09 0.09 0.07 0.10 0.08 0.09 0.02 

CD 5% 0.36 0.39 0.27 0.40 0.33 0.36 0.09 

CV % 14.28 12.44 9.53 14.70 12.69 14.29 3.48 


DAS: Day After Spraying


4.7.08 27.7.08 


Mean no of weevils /plant after spraying 

Fig. 2. Seasonal incidence of Apion amplum in green gram under organic ecosystem

Dosages 

10 4 Conidia/g 0 

Table 4: Efficacy of Beauveria bassiana on adult mortality of A. amplum 

Adult mortality (%) 

3 DAS 4 DAS 5 DAS 6 DAS 7 DAS 8 DAS 9 DAS 10 DAS Mean 

(9.09) 


(9.09) 


(9.09) 


(9.09) 

3.33 

(10.49) 

6.67 

(14.95) 

13.33 

(21.39) 

20.00 

(26.55) 

10.00 

(18.43) 

16.67 

(24.07) 

33.33 

(35.24) 

43.33 

(41.15) 

20.00 

(26.55) 

26.67 

(31.06) 

46.67 

(43.07) 

60.00 

(50.75) 

SEM ± 0 0.49 0.66 0.72 1.09 0.99 1.21 1.52 0.27 

CD 1 % 0 2.33 3.15 3.40 5.16 4.68 5.76 7.23 1.28 

CV % 0 4.64 3.87 3.28 4.19 3.38 3.41 3.82 1.15 

Figure in the parenthesis are arc sine transformed values. 

DAS= Day After Spraying. 

33.33 

(35.24) 

40.00 

(39.22) 

56.67 

(48.43) 

70.00 

(56.77) 

40.00 

(39.20) 

50.00 

(44.98) 

66.67 

(54.73) 

80.00 

(63.41) 

56.67 

(48.82) 

70.00 

(56.77) 

83.33 

(65.93) 

93.33 

(75.21) 

60.00 

(50.75) 

80.00 

(63.43) 

90.00 

(71.92) 

100.00 

(89.96) 

27.92 

(31.88) 

36.25 

(37.00) 

48.75 

(44.27) 

58.33 

(49.78)

Treatment 

Bacillus thuringiensis @ 1 ml/l 20 a 

Table 5: Evaluation of biopesticides against Apion amplum (Adults) under laboratory condition 

Per cent corrected mortality 

3DAS 4DAS 5DAS 6DAS 7DAS 8DAS 9DAS 10DAS 11DAS 12DAS 13DAS 14DAS 15DAS MEAN 

(26.55) 

Beauveria bassiana @ 2g/lt 0.00 d 

(9.09) 

Beauveria bassiana @ 4g/lt 6.67 b 

Metarrhizium anisopliae @ 

2g/lt 


4g/lt 

(14.96) 

0.00 d 

(9.09) 

3.33 c 

(10.52) 

26.67 a 

(31.08) 

3.33 d 

(10.52) 

13.33 b 

(21.41) 

0.00 e 

(9.09) 

6.67 c 

(14.96) 

36.67 a 

(37.25) 

6.67 d 

(14.96) 

20.00 b 

(26.55) 

3.33 e 

(10.52) 

13.33 c 

(21.41) 

43.33 a 

(41.15) 

13.33 d 

(21.41) 

26.67 b 

(31.08) 

6.67 e 

(14.96) 

16.67 c 

(24.09) 

50 a 

(44.98) 

20.00 d 

(26.55) 

36.67 b 

(37.25) 

10.00 e 

(18.43) 

26.67 c 

(31.08) 

60 a 

(50.75) 

26.67 d 

(31.08) 

46.67 b 

(43.07) 

16.67 e 

(24.09) 

36.67 c 

(37.25) 

SEM ± 0.30 0.33 0.40 0.35 0.41 0.36 0.54 0.62 0.40 0.44 0.48 0.68 0.66 0.16 

CD 1% 1.37 1.48 1.77 1.58 1.82 1.61 2.43 2.77 1.78 1.96 2.14 3.03 2.94 0.72 

CV % 3.76 3.29 3.10 2.30 2.23 1.67 2.19 2.10 1.10 1.07 1.10 1.52 1.43 0.62 

73.33 a 

(58.89) 

33.33 d 

(35.25) 

56.67 b 

(48.41) 

23.33 e 

(28.87) 

46.67 c 

(43.07) 


Means followed by same letters in a column are not statistically different by DMRT (P= 0.05). 

DBS= Day Before Spraying DAS= Day After Spraying 

86.67 a 

(68.56) 

46.67 d 

(43.07) 

73.33 b 

(58.89) 

33.33 e 

(35.25) 

56.67 c 

(48.81) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

56.67 d 

(48.81) 

90.00 b 

(71.54) 

43.33 e 

(41.15) 

76.67 c 

(61.09) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

66.67 c 

(54.71) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

53.33 d 

(46.89) 

90.00 b 

(71.54) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

73.33 b 

(58.89) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

60.00 c 

(50.75) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

76.67 b 

(61.09) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

63.33 c 

(52.71) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

86.67 b 

(68.56) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

73.33 c 

(58.89) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

68.97 a 

(56.13) 

39.42 d 

(38.88) 

59.23 b 

(50.30) 

30.13 e 

(33.28) 

51.79 c 

(46.01)

Moratlity percentage (%) 

70.00 

60.00 

50.00 

40.00 

30.00 

20.00 

10.00 

0.00 

BT Beau 2g/lt Beau 4g/lt Met2g/lt Met4g/lt 

Treatments 

Adult 

Fig. 3. Evaluation of biopesticides against A. amplum under laboratory condition

Table 6: Evaluation of biopesticide against Apion amplum in greengram under 


Treatment 

Bacillus thuringiensis @1 ml/l 4.00 a 


2gm/l 

Mean number of adults per plant after 

1 st spray 

1DBS 3DAS 5DAS 7DAS 

(2.23) 

5.07 a 

(2.46) 

Metarrhizium anisopliae @ 4g/l 4.33 a 

(2.31) 

Beauveria bassiana @ 2g/l 4.87 a 

(2.41) 


(2.28) 

Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l 4.00 a 

(2.24) 

Control 5.40 a 

(2.53) 

2.60 de 

(1.90) 

3.80 b 

(2.19) 

3.00 cd 

(2.00) 

3.53 bc 

(2.13) 

2.87 de 

(1.96) 

2.27 e 

(1.81) 

5.47 a 

(2.54) 

2.40 d 

(1.84) 

3.40 b 

(2.10) 

2.73 bcd 

(1.93) 

3.20 bc 

(2.05) 

2.60 cd 

(1.89) 

2.07 d 

(1.75) 

5.53 a 

(2.56) 

2.53 cd 

(1.88) 

3.73 b 

(2.17) 

2.93 bcd 

(1.98) 

3.47 bc 

(2.11) 

2.80 bcd 

(1.95) 

2.20 d 

(1.79) 

5.77 a 

(2.60) 

MEAN 

2.51 cd 

(1.87) 

3.62 b 

(2.15) 

2.89 c 

(1.97) 

3.40 b 

(2.10) 

2.76 cd 

(1.94) 

2.18 d 

(1.78) 

5.59 a 

(2.57) 

SEM ± 0.10 0.05 0.06 0.08 0.05 

CD 5% 0.32 0.17 0.18 0.25 0.14 

CV % NS 6.45 7.04 9.73 5.43 


Means followed by same letters in the column are not statistically different by DMRT 

(P= 0.05). 

DBS= Day Before Spraying DAS= Day After Spraying.

4.2.2. Management of Apion amplum in greengram under Conventional 

system 

Results on the effect of biopesticides on adult and grubs of A. amplum are presented 

hereunder (table- 6 to 8). 

4.2.2.1 Apion amplum population after first spray 

The results revealed that a day before spray the initial number of A. amplum was 

uniform in all the treatments varying from 4.00 to 5.40 weevils per plant (Table-6). 

4.2.2.1.1. Three days after treatment 

Among all the treatments, Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l was found more effective in 

reducing the weevil number (2.27 weevils/ plant) (Table-6). But among the Biopesticides, 

Bacillus thuringiensis 1 ml/l (2.60 weevils/ plant) was found more effective in reducing the 

number of weevils per plant than other biopesticides. These treatments were followed by B. 

bassiana @ 4 g/l (2.87 weevils/ plant) and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l (3.80 weevils/ plant) which 

are at par with each other. However B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (3.53 weevils/ plant) and M. 

anisopliae 2 g/l (3.80 weevils/ plant) were effective in reducing the weevils population as they 

were significantly superior over untreated control (5.47 weevils/ plant). 

4.2.2.1.2. Five days after treatment 

Five days after treatment, Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l (2.07 weevils/ plant) was 

significantly more effective than other treatments (Table-6). But among the Biopesticides, 

Bacillus thuringiensis @ 1 ml/l was significantly more effective in reducing the weevil number 

(2.40 weevils/ plant) than other treatments. These treatments were followed by B. bassiana 

@ 4 g/l (2.60 weevils/ plant) and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l (2.73 weevils/ plant). However, B. 

bassiana @ 2 g/l (3.20 weevils/ plant) and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/l (3.40 weevils/ plant) were 

effective in reducing the weevil population as they were significantly superior untreated check 

(5.53 weevils/ plant). 

4.2.2.1.3. Seven days after treatment 

Among all the treatments, Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l was significantly superior over rest 

of the treatments by recording minimum number of (2.20) weevils per plant (Table-6). But 

among the Biopesticides, B. thuringiensis @ 1 ml/l was significantly more superior in reducing 

(2.53) weevils per plant than other treatments. These were followed by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l 

(2.80 weevils/plant) and M. anisopliae 4gm/l (2.93 weevils/plant) both being at par with each 

other. B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (3.47 adults and grubs / pod) and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/l (3.73 

weevils/ plant) were less effective than higher doses. They were superior over untreated 

control recording 5.77 weevils per plant. 

Based on cumulative mean, the results revealed that significantly less number of 

weevils were recorded from Fenvalerate (2.18 weevils/ plant) spray. Among the biopesticides 

treatments, B. thuringiensis 1 ml/l was significantly superior in reducing (2.51) weevils per 

plant than other treatments and it was on par with B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (2.76 weevils/ plant) 

and M. anisopliae @ 4 g/l (2.89 weevils/ plant) compared to all other treatments. These were 

followed by Beauveria bassiana @ 2 g/l (3.40 weevils/ plant) and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/l (3.62 

weevils/ plant) being on per with other. However, all these treatments were statistically 

superior over to untreated control (5.59 weevils / plant) in reducing weevil population. 

4.2.2.2. Apion. amplum population after second spray 


Significantly lowest number of weevils was recorded in Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l (2.47 

weevils/ plant). Among the biopesticides, B. thuringiensis 1 ml/l was significantly more 

superior in reducing (2.47) weevil population than other treatments (Table-7). Above 

treatments were followed by Beauveria bassiana @ 4 g/l (2.73 weevils/ plant) and M. 

anisopliae @ 4 g/l (2.93 weevils/ plant) which were at par with each other. However B.

assiana @ 2 g/l (3.47 weevils/ plant) and M. anisopliae @ 2 gm/l (3.67 weevils/ plant) were 

less effective in reducing the weevils population however they were significantly superior over 

control (6.00 weevils/ plant). 

4.2.2.2.2 Five days after treatment 

Among all the treatments, Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l (1.47 weevils/ plant) was 

significantly more effective than other treatments (Table-7). Among the biopesticides, B. 

thuringiensis 1 ml/l was significantly superior in reducing (2.20) weevil population than other 

biopesticides. These treatments were followed by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (2.33 weevils/ plant) 

and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l (2.60 weevils/ plant) being on par with each other. . B.bassiana @ 

2 g/l (3.07 weevils/ plant) and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/l (3.40 weevils/ plant) were less effective. 

However, untreated control recording significantly highest weevil (6.13 weevils/ plant) 

population compared to all other treatments. 


Seven days after treatment, Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l (1.80 weevils/ plant) was 

significantly more effective than other treatments (Table-7) in reducing weevil populations. But 

among the Biopesticides, B. thuringiensis 1 ml/l was significantly more superior in reducing 

(2.33) weevils per plant than other biopesticides. These treatments were followed by B. 

bassiana @ 4 g/l (2.67 weevils/ plant) and M. anisopliae @ 4gm/l (2.87 weevils/ plant) which 

were on par with each other. However, B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (3.27 weevils/ plant) and M. 

anisopliae @ 2 g/l (3.6 0 weevils/plant) were less effective in reducing the weevils population 

compared their higher doses. However, these two treatments were significantly over 

untreated control (6.20 weevils/ plant). 


weevil were recorded from Fenvalerate (1.76 weevils/ plant). Next best treatment to follow 

was B.thuringiensis 1 ml/l which was significantly superior in reducing 2.33 weevil populations 

among biopesticides used which are atv par with B. bassiana 4 g/l (2.58 weevils/ plant) and 

M. anisopliae 4g/l (2.80 weevils/ plant). These were followed by B. bassiana 2 g/l (3.27 

weevils/ plant) and M. anisopliae 2 g/l (3.56 weevils/ plant) being on par with each other. 

However, all these treatments were significantly superior over untreated control (6.11 weevils 

/ plant) in reducing the weevil population. 

4.2.2.3. A. amplum population after third spray 


Significantly lowest numbers of grubs and adults were recoded in Fenvalerate spray 

@ 0.5 ml/l (1.13 grubs and adults/ plant). Among the Biopesticides, Bacillus thuringiensis 1 

ml/l was significantly superior in reducing 1.67 grubs and adults per plant than other 

biopesticides. These treatments were followed by B.bassiana @ 4 g/l (1.93 grubs and adults/ 

plant) and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l (2.20 grubs and adults/ plant which are on par with each 

other. However, B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (2.80 grubs and adults/ plant) and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/l 

(3.07 grubs and adults/ plant) were less effective in reducing the weevil populations. 

However, these treatments significantly superior over untreated control (6.23 grubs and 

adults/ plant) in reducing the pest populations (Table-8). 

4.2.2.3.2. Five days after treatment: 

Among all the treatments, Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l (0.87 grubs and adults/ plant) was 

significantly more effective than other treatments. Among the biopesticides, B. thuringiensis 1 

ml/l was significantly superior in reducing (1.40 grubs and adults / plant) pest population than 

other biopesticides. These treatments were followed by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (1.60 grubs and 

adults/ plant) and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l (1.93 grubs and adults/ plant). B. bassiana @ 2 g/l 

(2.40 adults and grubs / plant) and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/l (2.73 grubs and adults/ plant) all 

these treatments were significantly superior over control (6.47 grubs and adults/ pod) in 

reducing the seed weevil population in greengram (Table-8).



Treatment 

Bacillus thuringiensis @1 ml/l 2.47 cd 

Mean number of adults per plant after 2 nd 

spray 

3DAS 5DAS 7DAS MEAN 

(1.86) 

Metarrhizium anisopliae @2gm/l 3.67 b 

(2.16) 

Metarrhizium anisopliae @ 4g/l 2.93 bc 

(1.98) 

Beauveria bassiana @ 2g/l 3.47 b 

(2.11) 

Beauveria bassiana @ 4g/l 2.73 bcd 

(1.93) 

Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l 2.00 d 

(1.73) 


(2.70) 

2.20 cd 

(1.79) 

3.40 b 

(2.10) 

2.60 bc 

(1.90) 

3.07 bc 

(2.02) 

2.33 bcd 

(1.83) 

1.47 d 

(1.57) 

6.13 a 

(2.65) 

2.33 cd 

(1.83) 

3.60 b 

(2.14) 

2.87 bc 

(1.97) 

3.27 bc 

(2.07) 

2.67 bcd 

(1.91) 

1.80 d 

(1.67) 

6.20 a 

(2.65) 

2.33 d 

(1.83) 

3.56 b 

(2.13) 

2.80 cd 

(1.95) 

3.27 bc 

(2.07) 

2.58 d 

(1.89) 

1.76 e 

(1.66) 

6.11 a 

(2.67) 

SEM ± 0.07 0.08 0.07 0.04 

CD 5% 0.22 0.26 0.23 0.13 

CV % 8.45 10.39 8.89 5.01 


Means followed by same letters in the column are not statistically different by DMRT (P= 

0.05). 




Treatment 

Bacillus thuringiensis @1 ml/l 1.67 de 

Mean number of grubs and adults per plant 

after 3 rd spray 


(1.63) 


(2.02) 

Metarrhizium anisopliae @ 4g/l 2.20 bcd 

(1.79) 

Beauveria bassiana @ 2g/l 2.80 bc 

(1.95) 

Beauveria bassiana @ 4g/l 1.93 cde 

(1.71) 

Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l 1.13 e 

(1.46) 


(2.71) 

1.40 de 

(1.55) 

2.73 b 

(1.93) 

1.93 bcd 

(1.71) 

2.40 bcd 

(1.84) 

1.60 cde 

(1.61) 

0.87 e 

(1.37) 

6.47 a 

(2.73) 

1.53 cd 

(1.59) 

3.00 b 

(2.00) 

2.13 bc 

(1.77) 

2.67 b 

(1.91) 

1.73 cd 

(1.65) 

1.07 d 

(1.44) 

6.73 a 

(2.83) 

1.53 d 

(1.59) 

2.93 b 

(1.98) 

2.09 c 

(1.76) 

2.62 b 

(1.90) 

1.76 cd 

(1.66) 

1.02 e 

(1.42) 

6.51 a 

(2.74) 

SEM ± 0.08 0.07 0.06 0.05 

CD 5% 0.23 0.21 0.19 0.14 

CV % 9.53 8.84 7.59 5.71 



0.05). 


Cumulative mean of grub and adult per plant 

7.00 

6.00 

5.00 

4.00 

3.00 

2.00 

1.00 

0.00 

Bt @1 ml/l Metarrhizium anisopliae @2gm/l Metarrhizium anisopliae@ 4g/l 

Beauveria bassiana@ 2g/l Beauveria bassiana@ 4g/l Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l 

Control 

Treatments 

Fig. 4. Evaluation of biopesticide against Apion amplum in green gram under conventional ecosystem- 3rd spray


Seven days after treatment, Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l (1.07 grubs and adults/ plant) 

was significantly more effective than other treatments (Table-8). But among the biopesticides, 

B. thuringiensis 1 ml/l was significantly superior in reducing 1.53 grubs and adults per plant 

than other biopesticides. These treatments were followed by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (1.73 grubs 

and adults/ pant) and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l (2.13 grubs and adults/ plant) which are on par 

with each other. However, B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (2.67 grubs and adults/ plant) and M. 

anisopliae @ 2 g/l (2.83 grubs and adults/ plant) were less effective in reducing the weevil 

populations. However, these treatments significantly superior over untreated control (6.73 

grubs and adults/ plant) in reducing the weevil populations. 


seed weevil were recorded in Fenvalerate (1.02 grubs and adults/ plant) spray. Next best 

treatment to follow was B. thuringiensis @ 1 ml/l (1.53 grub and adults / plant). B. bassiana 

@ 4 g/l (1.76 grub and adults/ plant) and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l (2.09 grubs and adults / plant) 

were found on at par with each other in reducing pest population. B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (2.62 

grubs and adults / plant) and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/l (2.93 grubs and adults / plant) were 

inferior to their higher doses in reducing the pest population which are at par with other. 

However, all these treatments were significantly superior over untreated control (6.51 grubs 

and adults / plant) in reducing the weevil populations. 

4.2.4. Per cent pod damage 

Observations on pod damage were made following the application of biopesticides. 

The results (Table-9) revealed that among the different treatments tested, Fenvalerate was 

significantly more effective (24.75%) than other treatments in reducing pod damage. But 

among the Biopesticides, B. thuringiensis application proved more effective (38.05%) than 

other biopesticides. However this was followed by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (42.08%) and M. 

anisopliae @ 4g/l (46.30%). B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (51.20%) and M. anisopliae @ 2 gm/l 

(54.77%) were least effective than higher doses. However, significantly highest pod damage 

was noticed in untreated control (64.35%) compare to all other treatments. 

As regards to the per cent reduction in pod damage compared to untreated check, 

the highest reduction in pod damage noticed in Fenvalerate (61.54%). But among the 

Biopesticides, B. thuringiensis recorded highest reduction (40.86%) in pod damage. More 

than 25 per cent reduction in pod damage was recorded in B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (33.49%) and 

M. anisopliae @ 4gm/l (28.05%). Whereas, B. bassiana @ 2 g/l and M. anisopliae @ 2 gm/l 

recorded 20.43 per cent and 14.89 per cent reduction in pod damage, respectively over 

control. 

4.2.5. Per cent seed damage 

The per cent seed damage (Table-9) in different treatments ranged from 26.08 to 

66.11 per cent. Among all the treatments, Fenvalerate recorded lowest seed damage 

(26.08%). Among the biopesticides, B. thuringiensis (36.00%) recorded significantly more 

effective than other biopesticides in reducing seed damage. These treatments were followed 

by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (43.02%) and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l (47.42%) found on par with each 

other. Whereas, untreated control recorded maximum seed damage (66.11%) to the over all 

other treatments. 

Maximum per cent reduction in seed damage over control was noticed in Fenvalerate 

(60.56%). But among the biopesticides, B. thuringiensis recorded highest reduction (45.55%) 

in pod damage. Whereas, less per cent reduction in seed damage over control was noticed in 

B. bassiana @ 2 gm/l and M. anisopliae @ 2 gm/l with a reduction of 20.73 and 15.67 per 

cent respectively over control.

Table 9: Effect of biopesticides on pod and seed damage of greengram due 

to A. amplum 

Treatment 

Per cent 

pod 

damage 

Bacillus thuringiensis @1 ml/l 38.05 d 

(38.04) 

Metarrhizium anisopliae@ 2gm/l 54.77 b 

(47.72) 

Metarrhizium anisopliae @ 4g/l 46.30 bcd 

(42.84) 

Beauveria bassiana @ 2g/l 51.20 bc 

(45.67) 

Beauveria bassiana @ 4g/l 42.80 cd 

(40.81) 

Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l 24.75 e 

(29.78) 


(53.34) 

Per cent 

reduction 

over 

control 

Per cent 

seed 

damage 

40.86 36.00 e 

(36.83) 

14.89 55.75 b 

(48.28) 

28.05 47.42 cd 

(43.50) 

20.43 52.40 bc 

(46.36) 

33.49 43.02 d 

(40.97) 

61.54 26.08 f 

(30.67) 

- 66.11 a 

(54.38) 

Per cent 

reduction 

over 

control 

SEM ± 1.73 - 1.15 - 

CD 5% 5.35 - 3.55 - 

CV % 7.05 - 4.86 - 

45.55 

15.68 

28.28 

20.73 

34.92 

60.56 


0.05). 

Figure in the parenthesis are angular transformed values. 

-

4.2.6. Grain yield 

Significantly highest grain yield of (490 kg / ha) was obtained in Fenvalerate (Table- 

10) compared to all other treatments. Among the biopesticides, B. thuringiensis (340 kg / ha) 

was recorded significantly higher yield compared to all other biopesticides. This was followed 

by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (310 kg/ ha) and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l (281 kg/ ha). Whereas, less 

grain yield was recorded in B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (130 kg/ ha) and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/ l (110 

kg/ ha). Whereas, untreated control recorded only 30.00 kg per ha yield which was 

significantly inferior over all other treatments (Table-9). 

4.2.7. Gross income (Rs. / ha) 

Among all the treatments, Fenvalerate recorded highest gross income of Rs 12250 

per ha. But among the biopesticides, B. thuringiensis recorded highest gross income of Rs 

8550 per ha followed by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (Rs 8000/ ha) and M. anisopliae 4g/l (Rs 7500/ 

ha). Whereas, B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (Rs 3875/ ha) and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/ l (Rs 2775/ ha) 

recorded lowest gross income compare to other treatments (Table-10). 

4.2.8. Net income (Rs. / ha) 

Among the different treatments, Fenvalerate recorded highest net income of Rs 

11830 per ha. Among the Biopesticides, B. thuringiensis recorded highest net income of Rs 

7165 per ha followed by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (Rs 6340/ ha) and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l (Rs 

5631/ ha). Whereas, B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (Rs 2648/ ha) and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/l (Rs 1948/ 

ha) recorded lowest net income compare to other treatments (Table-10). 

4.2.9. Benefit cost ratio 

Among the different treatments, highest Benefit: Cost ratio of 28.57 was obtained in 

Fenvalerate spray followed by B. thuringiensis (5.99), B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (5.50) and M. 

anisopliae @ 4g/l (4.70). Whereas, B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (4.32) and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/ l 

(3.43) recorded lowest B:C ratio (Table-10) in greengram. 

4.2.10. Management of Apion amplum in greengram under organic production 

system 

Observation on the effect of biopesticides against adults and grubs population were 

presented hereunder. 

4.2.10.1. Apion amplum population after first spray 

The results revealed that the initial number of A. amplum was uniform in all 

treatments a day before imposing treatments varying from 4.00 to 5.20 weevils per plant 

(Table-11). 


Among all the biopesticides, B. thuringiensis 1 ml/l was significantly superior in 

reducing (2.67) weevils per plant than other treatments. This was followed by B. bassiana @ 

4 gm/l (2.87 weevils/ plant) and M. anisopliae @ 4gm/l (3.00 weevils/ plant) which are at par 

with each other. B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (3.40 weevils/ plant) and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/l (3.53 

weevils/ plant) were less effective in reducing the weevils population compared their higher 

doses. However, they were superior over untreated control recording 5.53 weevils per plant 

compared to all other treatments (Table-11).

Table 10: Effect of biopesticides on grain yield in greengram under conventional 

ecosystem 

Treatment 

Bacillus 

thuringiensis @1 

ml/l 

Metarrhizium 

anisopliae 

@ 2gm/l 

Metarrhizium 

anisopliae @ 4g/l 

Beauveria 

bassiana @ 2g/l 

Beauveria 

bassiana @ 4g/l 

Fenvalerate @ 

0.5 ml/l 

Yield 

(kg/ha) 

Increase 

over 

control 

(%) 

Gross 

income 

(Rs/ha) 

Cost of 

plant 

protection 

(Rs/ha) 

Net 

income 

(Rs/ha) 

I:B:C 

ratio 

340.00 b 1033.33 8500.00 1335 7165.00 5.99 

110.33 e 266.66 2758.33 810 1948.33 3.43 

281.67 d 840 7041.67 1410 5631.67 4.70 

130.00 e 333.33 3250.00 810 2440.00 4.32 

310.00 c 933.33 7750.00 1410 6340.00 5.50 

490.00 a 1533.33 12250.00 420 11830.00 28.57 

Control 29.78 f 744.44 744.44 

SEM ± 0.052 

CD 5% 0.160 

CV % 9.32 


0.05). 

Metarrhizium anisopliae= 200/kg 

Beauveria bassiana = 200/kg 

Price of produce: 2500 q/ ha.

Yield (kg/ha) 

600.00 

500.00 

400.00 

300.00 

200.00 

100.00 

0.00 

BT 1 ml/l Metarrhizium 

anisopliae 2gm/l 

Metarrhizium 

anisopliae 4g/l 

Beauveria 

bassiana 2g/l 

Beauveria 

bassiana 4g/l 

yield kg/ha 

pod damage(%) 

Fenvalerate 0.5 

ml/l 

Fig. 5. Evaluation of pod damage and yield against Apion amplumthrough biopesticide 

Control 

70.00 

60.00 

50.00 

40.00 

30.00 

20.00 

10.00 

0.00 

Per cent pod damage


Significantly lowest number of weevils was recorded in Bacillus thuringiensis 1 ml/l 

2.40 weevils per plant than other bopesticides. This was followed by 

B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (2.67 weevils/ plant) and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l (2.80 weevils/ plant) which 

were at par with each other. B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (3.13 adults and grubs / pod) and M. 

anisopliae @ 2 g/l (3.27 weevils/ plant) were less effective in reducing the weevil population 

however they were significantly superior over untreated control (5.60 weevils/ plant) 

compared to all other treatments (Table-11). 


Seven days after treatment, B. thuringiensis 1 ml/l was significantly superior in 

reducing (2.53) weevils per plant than other biopesticides (Table-11). These treatments were 

followed by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (2.93 weevils/ plant) and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l (3.07 weevils/ 

plant) which were at par with each other. However, B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (3.53 weevils/ plant) 

and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/l (3.67 weevils/ plant) were less effective in reducing the weevil 

population compare to higher their doses. However these two treatments were significantly 

superior over untreated control (5.73 weevils/ plant). 


weevils were recorded from B. thuringiensis 2.53 weevils per plant which may be at per with 

B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (2.82 weevils/ plant) and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l (2.96 weevils/ plant). 

These were followed by B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (3.36 weevils/ plant) and M. anisopliae 2 g/l (3.49 

weevils/ plant) being on per with other. However, all these treatments were significantly 

superior over untreated control (5.62 weevils / plant) in reducing the weevil population. 

4.2.10.2. A. amplum population after second spray 


Among all the treatments, Biopesticides, B. thuringiensis 1 ml/l was significantly 

superior in reducing (2.20) grubs and adults per plant than other biopesticides. These 

treatments were followed by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (1.60 grubs and adults/ plant) and M. 

anisopliae @ 4g/l (1.93 grubs and adults/ plant). B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (2.40 adults and grubs / 

plant) and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/l (2.73 grubs and adults/ plant) were less effective. However, 

untreated control recorded significantly higher weevil (5.93 grubs and adults/ plant) population 

compared to all other treatments (Table-12). 

4.2.10.2.2 Five days after treatment 

Five days after treatment B. thuringiensis 1 ml/l was significantly superior in reducing 

(1.93) grubs and adults per plant than other biopesticides (Table-12). These treatments were 

followed by Beauveria bassiana @ 4 g/l (2.07 grubs and adults/ plant) and M. anisopliae @ 

4g/l (2.47 grubs and adults/ plant) which are at par with each other. However, B. bassiana @ 

2 g/l (3.00 grubs and adults/ plant) and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/l (3.20 grubs and adults/ plant) 

were effective in reducing the weevil populations as they were significantly superior over 

untreated control (6.10 grubs and adults/ plant) 


Significantly lowest number of grubs and adults was recoded in B. thuringiensis 1 ml/l 

was significantly superior in reducing (2.07) grubs and adults per plant than other 

biopesticides (Table-12). These treatments were followed by B. bassiana 4 g/l (2.20 grubs 

and adults/ plant) and M. anisopliae @ 4gl (2.67 grubs and adults/ plant) which are at par 

with each other. However, B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (3.20 grubs and adults/ plant) and M. 

anisopliae @ 2 g/l (3.33 grubs and adults/ plant) were less effective compared to higher dose. 

However, untreated control recorded significantly higher weevil (6.33 grubs and adults/ pod) 

population compared to all other treatments.

Table 11: Evaluation of biopesticides against Apion amplum in greengram under 


Treatment 

Bacillus thuringiensis @1 ml/l 4.00 a 

Mean number of adults per plant 

after 1 st spray 


(2.24) 

Metarrhizium anisopliae @2gm/l 4.93 a 

(2.44) 

Metarrhizium anisopliae @4g/l 4.20 a 

(2.28) 

Beauveria bassiana @2g/l 4.67 a 

(2.38) 


(2.38) 


(2.49) 

2.67 b 

(1.91) 

3.53 b 

(2.13) 

3.00 b 

(2.00) 

3.40 b 

(2.10) 

2.87 b 

(1.97) 

5.53 a 

(2.56) 

2.40 b 

(1.84) 

3.27 b 

(2.07) 

2.80 b 

(1.95) 

3.13 b 

(2.03) 

2.67 b 

(1.91) 

5.60 a 

(2.57) 

2.53 b 

(1.88) 

3.67 b 

(2.16) 

3.07 b 

(2.02) 

3.53 b 

(2.13) 

2.93 b 

(1.98) 

5.73 a 

(2.59) 

MEAN 

2.53 d 

(1.88) 

3.49 b 

(2.12) 

2.96 bcd 

(1.99) 

3.36 bc 

(2.09) 

2.82 cd 

(1.96) 

5.62 a 

(2.57) 

SEM ± 0.08 0.10 0.12 0.10 0.05 

CD 5% 0.25 0.30 0.37 0.32 0.14 

CV % NS 11.49 14.08 12.14 5.40 



(P= 0.05). 


Table 12: Evaluation of biopesticides against Apion amplum in greengram under 


Treatment 

Bacillus thuringiensis @1 ml/l 2.20 b 

Mean number of grubs and adults per plant 

after 2 nd spray 


(1.79) 


(2.11) 

Metarrhizium anisopliae @ 4g/l 2.80 b 

(1.95) 


(2.07) 


(1.84) 


(2.63) 

1.93 b 

(1.71) 

3.20 b 

(2.05) 

2.47 b 

(1.86) 

3.00 b 

(2.00) 

2.07 b 

(1.75) 

6.10 a 

(2.66) 

2.07 c 

(1.75) 

3.33 b 

(2.08) 

2.67 bc 

(1.91) 

3.20 bc 

(2.05) 

2.20 bc 

(1.79) 

6.33 a 

(2.71) 

2.07 e 

(1.75) 

3.33 b 

(2.08) 

2.64 cd 

(1.91) 

3.16 bc 

(2.04) 

2.22 de 

(1.80) 

6.12 a 

(2.67) 

SEM ± 0.09 0.10 0.07 0.05 

CD 5% 0.27 0.31 0.22 0.15 

CV % 10.29 12.19 8.53 5.92 



(P= 0.05). 



weevils were recorded from B. thuringiensis 1 ml/l was significantly superior in reducing 2.04 

grub and adults per plant which may be at par with Beauveria bassiana @ 4 g/l (2.22 grub 

and adults/ plant) followed by Metarrhizium anisopliae @ 4g/l (2.64 grubs and adults / plant). 

These treatments were followed by B. bassiana 2 g/l (3.16 grubs and adults / plant) and M. 

anisopliae @ 2 g/l (3.33 grubs and adults / plant) being at per with other. However, all these 

treatments were significantly superior over untreated control (6.12 grubs and adults /plant) in 

reducing the weevils population. 


Observations on pod damage were made following the application of biopesticides 

(Table-13). The results revealed that among the Biopesticides, B. thuringiensis application 

proved more effective (36.50%) than other biopoesticides. This treatment was followed by B. 

bassiana @ 4 g/l (41.16%) and Metarrhizium. anisopliae @ 4g/l (44.96%). B. bassiana @ 2 

g/l (50.00%) and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/l (52.78%) were less effective than their higher doses. 

However, significantly highest pod damage was noticed from untreated control (65.10%) 

compare to all other treatments. 

As regards to the per cent reduction in pod damage compare to untreated check, 

Bacillus thuringiensis (43.93%) recorded highest reduction in pod damage. More than 40 per 

cent reduction in pod damage was recorded in Beauveria bassiana 4 g/l (36.76%) and M. 

anisopliae 4g/l (30.93%). Whereas, B. bassiana 2 g/l and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/l recorded 

23.19 per cent and 18.92 per cent reduction in pod damage, respectively over control. 


The per cent seed damage (Table-13) in different treatments ranged from 34.95 to 

67.15 per cent. Among all the treatments, Bacillus thuringiensis recorded lowest seed 

damage (34.95%). This was followed by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (43.44%) and M. anisopliae @ 

4g/l (46.44%) which are at per with each other. Whereas, untreated control recorded 

maximum (67.15%) seed damage over all other treatments. 

Maximum per cent reduction in seed damage over control was noticed in B. 

thuringiensis (47.94%). Whereas, less per cent reduction in seed damage was noticed in B. 

bassiana ( 2 g/l ) and M. anisopliae ( 2 g/l) with a reduction of 22.95 per cent and 18.46 per 

cent respectively over control. 


Among the biopesticides, B. thuringiensis 332 kg per ha was recorded significantly 

higher yield compared to all other biopesticides. This was followed by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l 

(304 kg/ ha) and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l (275 kg/ ha). Whereas, less grain yield was recorded in 

B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (127.33 kg/ ha) and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/l (103.33 kg/ ha). Whereas, 

untreated control recorded only 33.78 kg per ha yield which was significantly inferior over all 

other treatments (Table-14). 


Among the all biopesticides, B. thuringiensis recorded highest gross income of Rs 

8300 per ha followed by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (Rs 7616/ ha) and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l (Rs 

6875/ ha). Whereas, B. bassiana @ 2 gm/l (Rs 3183.33/ ha) and M. anisopliae 2 gm/l (Rs 

2583.33/ ha) recorded lowest gross income compared to other treatments (Table-14). 


Among the different biopesticides, B. thuringiensis recorded highest net income of Rs 

7035 per ha followed by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (Rs 6276.67/ ha) and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l (Rs 

5535/ ha). Whereas, B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (Rs 2443.33/ ha) and M. anisopliae @ 2 g/l (Rs 

1843.33/ ha) recorded lowest net income compared to other treatments (Table-14).

Table 13: Effect of biopesticides on pod and seed damage of greengram due to A. 


Treatment 

Per cent 

pod 

damage 

Bacillus thuringiensis @1 ml/l 36.50 d 

(37.12) 

Metarrhizium anisopliae@ 2gm/l 52.78 b 

(46.57) 

Metarrhizium anisopliae @ 4g/l 44.96 bc 

(42.08) 


(44.98) 

Beauveria bassiana @ 4g/l 41.17 cd 

(39.87) 


(53.78) 

Per cent 

reduction 

over 

control 

Per cent 

seed 

damage 

43.93 34.95 e 

(36.21) 

18.92 54.75 b 

(47.71) 

30.93 46.44 cd 

(42.94) 

23.19 51.74 bc 

(45.98) 

36.76 43.44 d 

(41.21) 

67.15 a 

(55.02) 

SEM ± 1.43 1.15 

CD 5% 4.42 3.53 

CV % 5.63 4.43 

Per cent 

reduction 

over 

control 

47.94 

18.46 

30.84 

22.95 

35.30 


0.05) 

Figure in the parenthesis are angular transformed values

Table 14: Effect of biopesticides on grain yield in greengram under organic ecosystem 

Treatment 

Bacillus thuringiensis @1 

ml/l 


2gm/l 


4g/l 

Beauveria bassiana @ 

2g/l 

Beauveria bassiana @ 

4g/l 

Yield 

(kg/ha) 

332.00 

a 

103.33 

c 

275.00 

b 

127.33 

c 

304.67 

ab 

Increase 

over 

control 

(%) 

Gross 

income 

(Rs/ha) 

Cost of 

plant 

protection 

(Rs/ha) 

Net 

income 

(Rs/ha) 

I:B:C 

ratio 

870.58 8300.00 1265 7035.00 6.56 

202.94 2583.33 740 1843.33 3.49 

708.82 6875.00 1340 5535.00 5.13 

273.52 3183.33 740 2443.33 4.30 

797.05 7616.67 1340 6276.67 5.68 

Control 33.78 d 844.44 844.44 

SEM ± 0.10 

CD 5% 0.31 

CV % 8.91 


Metarrhizium anisopliae= 200/kg 

Beauveria bassiana = 200/kg 



Among the different biopesticides, highest Benefit: Cost of 6.56 was obtained in B. 

thuringiensis followed by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (5.68) and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l (5.13). Wheeas, 

B. bassiana @ 2 g/l (4.30) and M. anisopliae @ @ 2 g/l (4.39) recorded lowest B:C ratio 

compared to other biopesticide treatments (Table-14). 

4.3. Evaluation of botanicals for the management of Apion amplum 

4.3.1. Evaluation of botanical against A. amplum under Laboratory condition 

Different botanicals were evaluated for their efficacy on adult of A. amplum in vitro. 

The result furnished on table-15 indicated that, NSKE @ 5% recorded cent per cent mortality 

of beetles after five days spraying. However, Vitex negundo @ 5% showed cent per cent 

mortality eleven days after spraying followed by Cristol 56 SL1% (93.33%). Other two 

treatments Agniastra @ 10% (66.67%) and Neem oil @ 2% (76.67%) showed less mortality 

compare to other botanicals eleven days after observations. Present study revealed that 

NSKE @ 5% showed highest mortality followed by Vitex negundo @ 5% and followed by 

Cristol 56 SL1%. 

4.3.2. Management of Apion amplum in greengram under Conventional 

system 

Results on the effect of botanicals on adults and grubs of A. amplum are presented 

hereunder (Table 16 to 18). 

4.3.2.1. A. amplum population after first spray 

The results revealed that a day before spray initial number of A. amplum was uniform 

in all the treatments varying from 4.67 to 6.13 weevils per plant (Table-16). 

4.3.2.1.1. Three days after treatment: 

Three days after treatment significantly was lowest population of weevils were 

recorded in NSKE @ 5% (2.87 weevils/ plant) compared to other botanicals. This was 

followed by Vitex negundo @ 5% (3.07 weevils/ plant) which was at par with Achorus 

calamus @ 5% (3.33 weevils/ plant) and Cristol 56 SL1% (3.73 weevils/ plant). Higher 

population was observed in Calotropis gigentia @ 5% (3.33 weevils/ plant) and Cristol 74 GL 

1% (5.33 weevils/ plant) as they were significantly superior over untreated control (6.13 

weevils/ plant) (Table-16). 


Among all the treatments, NSKE @ 5% was significantly superior (2.53 weevils/ 

plant) than other spray for controlling the weevil (Table-16). This treatment was followed by V. 

negundo @ 5% (2.73 weevils/ plant) which was on par with A. calamus @ 5% (3.07 weevils/ 

plant) and Cristol 56 SL1% (3.47 weevils/ plant). Higher population was observed in C. 

gigentia @ 5% (4.93 weevils/ plant) and Cristol 74 GL 1% (5.13 weevils/ plant) as they were 

significantly superior over untreated control (6.40 weevils/ plant). 


Seven days after treatment, significantly lowest weevil populations found in NSKE @ 

5% (2.80 weevils/ plant) compared to other botanicals. This was on par with V. negundo @ 

5% (2.93 weevils/ plant). The next best treatments to follow were A. calamus @ 5% (3.40 

weevils/ plant) followed by Cristol 56 SL1% (3.93 weevils/ plant) and Agave americana@ 5% 

(4.00 weevils/ plant). Whereas higher population was observed in C. gigentia @ 5% (5.20 

weevils/ plant) and Cristol 74 GL 1% (5.27 weevils/ plant) as they were significantly superior 

over untreated control (6.73 weevils/ plant) (Table-16).

Treatment 

Neem oil @ 2% 36.67 d 

Table 15: Evaluation of botanicals against Apion amplum (Adult) under laboratory condition 


3DAS 4DAS 5DAS 6DAS 7DAS 8DAS 9DAS 10DAS 11DAS 12DAS 13DAS 14DAS 15DAS MEAN 

(37.25) 

Nske @ 5% 76.67 a 

(61.09) 

Vitex negundo @ 5% 56.67 b 

(48.81) 

Cristol 56 SL @ 1% 43.33 c 

(41.15) 

Cristol 74 GL @ 1% 56.67 b 

(48.81) 

Achorus calamus @ 5% 23.33 e 

(28.87) 

Agniastra @ 10% 33.33 d 

(35.25) 

Adhatoda vesica @ 5% 23.33 e 

(28.87) 

Agave americana @ 5% 10.00 f 

(18.43) 

Calotropis gigentia @ 5% 26.67 e 

(31.08) 

43.33 d 

(41.15) 

93.33 a 

(75.02) 

63.33 b 

(52.71) 

53.33 c 

(46.89) 

60.00 j 

(50.75) 

40.00 de 

(39.22) 

33.33 fg 

(35.25) 

30.00 g 

(33.20) 

23.33 h 

(28.87) 

36.67 ef 

(37.25) 

50 cd 

(44.98) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

70 b 

(56.77) 

66.67 b 

(54.71) 

70.00 b 

(56.77) 

46.67 d 

(43.07) 

46.67 d 

(43.07) 

46.67 d 

(43.07) 

36.67 e 

(37.25) 

53.33 c 

(46.89) 

56.67 ef 

(48.81) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

76.67 b 

(61.09) 

73.33 bc 

(58.89) 

70.00 c 

(56.77) 

53.33 f 

(46.89) 

53.33 f 

(46.89) 

63.33 d 

(52.71) 

53.33 f 

(46.89) 

60.00 de 

(50.75) 

60 ef 

(50.75) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

83.33 b 

(65.88) 

76.67 c 

(61.09) 

76.67 c 

(61.09) 

60.00 ef 

(50.75) 

56.67 f 

(48.81) 

70.00 d 

(56.77) 

60.00 ef 

(50.75) 

63.33 ef 

(52.71) 

66.67 de 

(54.71) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

86.67 b 

(68.56) 

80.00 c 

(63.41) 

76.67 c 

(61.09) 

60.00 e 

(50.75) 

60.00 e 

(50.75) 

73.33 cd 

(58.89) 

63.33 e 

(52.71) 

66.67 de 

(54.73) 

SEM ± 0.20 0.20 0.21 0.20 0.19 0.36 0.14 0.27 0.21 0.22 0.28 0.33 0.16 0.12 

CD 1% 0.79 0.80 0.85 0.80 0.76 1.45 0.57 1.10 0.83 0.87 1.13 1.34 0.66 0.46 

CV % 0.90 0.78 0.71 0.61 0.56 1.03 0.39 0.70 0.51 0.50 0.61 0.69 0.32 0.33 

66.67 g 

(54.71) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

90.00 b 

(71.54) 

83.33 c 

(65.88) 

80.00 d 

(63.41) 

66.67 g 

(54.71) 

60.00 h 

(50.75) 

80.00 d 

(63.41) 

70.00 f 

(56.77) 

76.67 e 

(61.09) 

73.33 d 

(58.89) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

96.67 b 

(79.47) 

86.67 c 

(68.56) 

86.67 c 

(68.56) 

73.33 d 

(58.89) 

63.33 e 

(52.71) 

83.33 c 

(65.88) 

76.67 d 

(61.09) 

83.33 c 

(65.88) 

76.67 e 

(61.09) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

93.33 b 

(75.02) 

90.00 c 

(71.54) 

76.67 f 

( 61.09) 

66.67 f 

(54.71) 

83.33 d 

(65.88) 

80.00 de 

(63.41) 

83.33 d 

(65.88) 

80 e 

(63.41) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

96.67 b 

(79.47) 

83.33 de 

(65.88) 

76.67 f 

(61.09) 

90.00 c 

(71.54) 

86.67 de 

(68.56) 

90.00 c 

(71.54) 

83.33 d 

(65.88) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

86.67 d 

(68.56) 

83.33 d 

(65.88) 

93.33 c 

(75.02) 

93.33 c 

(75.02) 

96.67 b 

(79.47) 

93.33 b 

(75.02) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

96.67 b 

(79.47) 

93.33 b 

(75.02) 

96.67 b 

(79.47) 

96.67 b 

(79.47) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

96.67 b 

(79.47) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

100 a 

(89.96) 

68.21 e 

(55.65) 

97.69 a 

(81.23) 

86.41 b 

(68.34) 

81.28 c 

(64.34) 

81.79 c 

(64.72) 

66.67 ef 

(54.71) 

63.33 g 

(52.71) 

71.79 d 

(57.90) 

65.38 fg 

(53.94) 

72.05 d 

(58.06)

Grubs and adults / plant 

8.00 

7.00 

6.00 

5.00 

4.00 

3.00 

2.00 

1.00 

0.00 

Neem oil 

NSKE 

Vitex negundo 

Cristol 56 Sl 

Cristol 74 Gl 

Agniastra 

Achorus calamus 

Treatments 

Calotropis gigentia 

Adhatoda vesica 

Agave Americana 

grubs and adults 

Fig. 6. Effect of botanicals against grubs and adults of A. amplum in greengram under conventional system 

Control

Table 16: Evaluation of botanicals against Apion amplum in greengram under 


Treatment 

Neem oil @ 2% 6.07 a 

Mean number of adultss per plant after 1 st 

spray 


(2.66) 

NSKE 5% 5.00 a 

(2.45) 

Vitex negundo @ 5% 5.20 a 

(2.49) 

Cristol 56 Sl @ 1% 4.93 a 

(2.44) 

Cristol 74 Gl @ 1% 6.53 a 

(2.74) 

Agniastra @ 10% 5.87 a 

(2.62) 

Achorus calamus @ 5% 4.67 a 

Calotropis gigentia @ 

5% 

(2.38) 

6.33 a 

(2.71) 

Adhatoda vesica @ 5% 5.53 a 

(2.56) 

Agave americana@ 5% 5.33 a 

(2.52) 


(2.67) 

4.93 a - d 

(2.44) 

2.87 f 

(1.97) 

3.07 f 

(2.02) 

3.73 def 

(2.18) 

5.33 ab 

(2.52) 

4.73 bcd 

(2.39) 

3.33 ef 

(2.08) 

5.13 abc 

(2.48) 

4.33 b - e 

(2.31) 

3.93 c - f 

(2.22) 

6.27 a 

(2.70) 

4.73 bc 

(2.39) 

2.53 g 

(1.88) 

2.73 fg 

(1.93) 

3.47 d - g 

(2.11) 

5.13 b 

(2.48) 

4.53 bcd 

(2.35) 

3.07 efg 

(2.02) 

4.93 b 

(2.44) 

4.13 b - e 

(2.27) 

3.67 c - f 

(2.16) 

6.40 a 

(2.72) 

5.00 ab 

(2.45) 

2.80 e 

(1.95) 

2.93 de 

(1.98) 

3.93 b - e 

(2.22) 

5.27 ab 

(2.50) 

4.80 b 

(2.41) 

3.40 c - e 

(2.10) 

5.20 ab 

(2.49) 

4.40 bc 

(2.32) 

4.00 bcd 

(2.24) 

6.73 a 

(2.78) 

MEAN 

4.89 bc 

(2.43) 

2.73 gh 

(1.93) 

2.91 fg 

(1.98) 

3.71 def 

(2.17) 

5.26 b 

(2.50) 

4.69 bc 

(2.39) 

3.27 efg 

(2.07) 

5.09 b 

(2.47) 

4.29 bcd 

(2.30) 

3.87 de 

(2.21) 

6.47 a 

(2.73) 

SEM ± 0.10 0.09 0.08 0.09 0.05 

CD 5% 0.29 0.26 0.24 0.27 0.14 

CV % NS 10.12 9.24 10.60 5.48 



0.05). 



weevils were recorded in NSKE @ 5% (2.73 weevils/ plant) compared to other botanicals. 

Next best treatments to follow were V. negundo @ 5% (2.91 weevils/ plant) followed by A. 

calamus @ 5% (3.27 weevils/ plant) and Cristol 56 SL1% (3.71 weevils/ plant). The highest 

population was observed in C. gigentia @ 5% (5.09 weevils/ plant) and Cristol 74 GL 1% 

(5.26 weevils/ plant). However, all these treatments were statistically superior over untreated 

control (6.47 weevils / plant) in reducing the weevil population. 



Among all the treatments, NSKE @ 5% was significantly superior (2.67 weevils/ 

plant) than other botanicals. Next best treatments to follow were Vitex negundo @ 5% (2.87 

weevils/ plant) followed by A. calamus @ 5% (3.13 weevils/ plant) and Cristol 56 SL1% (3.53 

weevils/ plant). Higher population was recorded in C. gigentia @ 5% (4.87 weevils/ plant) and 

Cristol 74 GL 1% (5.07 weevils/ plant) as they were significantly superior over untreated 

control (6.93 weevils/ plant) in reducing weevil population (Table-17). 


Five days after treatment was significantly less weevil population was recorded in 

NSKE 5% (2.33 weevils/ plant) which was followed by V.negundo @ 5% (2.53 weevils/ plant) 

and was on per with A. calamus @ 5% (2.87 weevils/ plant) and Cristol 56 SL1% (3..07 

weevils/ plant). The highest population of weevils were observed in C. gigentia @ 5% (4.47 

weevils/ plant) and Cristol 74 GL 1% (4.80 weevils/ plant) as they were significantly superior 

over untreated control (7.10 weevils/ plant) (Table-17). 


Seven days after treatment, significantly lowest population of weevils found in NSKE 

@ 5% (2.73 weevils/ plant) which was on par with V. negundo @ 5% (2.80 weevils/ plant). 

The next best treatments to follow were A. calamus @ 5% (3.13 weevils/ plant), Cristol 56 

SL1% (3.93 weevils/ plant) and A. americana@ 5% (3.33 weevils/ plant). The highest 

population of weevils were observed in C. gigentia @ 5% (4.67 weevils/ plant) followed by 

Cristol 74 GL 1% (5.00 weevils/ plant) as they were significantly superior over untreated 

control (7.30 weevils/ plant) (Table-17). 

Based on cumulative mean, the results revealed that significantly less population of 

weevils were recorded in NSKE 5% (2.58 weevils/ plant) compared to other botanicals. This 

was followed by V. negundo @ 5% (2.73 weevils/ plant) , A. calamus @ 5% (3.04 weevils/ 

plant) and Cristol 56 SL1% (3.31 weevils/ plant). The highest population of weevils were 

observed in C. gigentia @ 5% (4.67 weevils/ plant) and Cristol 74 GL 1% (4.96 weevils/ 

plant). However, all these treatments were statistically superior over untreated control (7.11 

weevils / plant) in reducing the weevil population (Table-16). 

4.3.2.3. A. amplum population after third spray 


Three days after treatment, significantly lowest population of weevil was found in 

NSKE @ 5% (2.53 adults and grubs/ plant) which is on par with V. negundo @ 5% (2.73 

adults and grubs/ plant). The next best treatments to follow were A. calamus @ 5% (2.80 

adults and grubs/ plant), Cristol 56 SL1% (3.00 adults and grubs/ plant) and A. americana@ 

5% (3.27 adults and grubs/ plant). Highest population of weevils were observed in C. gigentia 

@ 5% (4.13 adults and grubs/ plant) and Cristol 74 GL 1% (4.33 adults and grubs/ plant) as 

they were significantly superior over untreated control (7.43 adults and grubs/ plant) (Table- 

18).



Treatment 

Neem oil @ 2% 4.73 bc 

Mean number of adults per plant after 2 nd spray 

3DASS 5DASS 7DASS MEAN 

(2.39) 

NSKE @ 5% 2.67 g 

(1.91) 

Vitex negundo @ 5% 2.87 fg 

(1.97) 

Cristol 56 Sl @ 1% 3.53 def 

(2.13) 

Cristol 74 Gl @1% 5.07 b 

(2.46) 

Agniastra@10% 4.47 bcd 

(2.34) 

Achorus calamus @ 5% 3.13 efg 

(2.03) 

C. gigentia @ 5% 4.87 bc 

(2.42) 

Adhatoda vesica @ 5% 4.07 bcd 

(2.25) 

Agave americana@5% 3.87 cde 

(2.21) 


(2.82) 

4.20 bc 

(2.28) 

2.33 f 

(1.83) 

2.53 ef 

(1.88) 

3.07 c - f 

(2.02) 

4.80 ab 

(2.41) 

4.00 bcd 

(2.24) 

2.87 def 

(1.97) 

4.47 bcd 

(2.34) 

3.73 bcd 

(2.18) 

3.53 b - e 

(2.13) 

7.10 a 

(2.85) 

4.47 ab 

(2.34) 

2.73 d 

(1.93) 

2.80 d 

(1.95) 

3.33 bcd 

(2.08) 

5.00 a 

(2.45) 

4.27 abc 

(2.29) 

3.13 cd 

(2.03) 

4.67 ab 

(2.38) 

3.93 a - d 

(2.22) 

3.80 a - d 

(2.19) 

7.30 a 

(2.88) 

4.47 bcd 

(2.34) 

2.58 i 

(1.89) 

2.73 hi 

(1.93) 

3.31 fg 

(2.08) 

4.96 b 

(2.44) 

4.24 cde 

(2.29) 

3.04 gh 

(2.01) 

4.67 bc 

(2.38) 

3.91 de 

(2.22) 

3.73 ef 

(2.18) 

7.11 a 

(2.85) 

SEM ± 0.07 0.09 0.09 0.04 

CD 5% 0.20 0.26 0.25 0.13 

CV % 7.61 10.48 9.96 5.15 



0.05). 



Among all the treatments, NSKE @ 5% (2.13 adults and grubs/ plant) was 

significantly effective in reducing weevil populations than other botanicals (Table-18). Next 

best treatments to follow were V. negundo @ 5% (2.33 adults and grubs/ plant), A. calamus 

@ 5% (2.60 adults and grubs/ plant) and Cristol 56 SL1% (2.87 adults and grubs/ plant). 

Highest population of weevil were observed in C. gigentia @ 5% (4.00 adults and grubs/ 

plant) and Cristol 74 GL 1% (4.20 adults and grubs/ plant) as they were significantly superior 

over untreated control (7.57 adults and grubs/ plant). 


NSKE @ 5% (2.33 adults and grubs/ plant) was significantly more effective in 

reducing weevil populations than other botanicals after seven days of observation, which may 

be on par with V. negundo @ 5% (2.53 adults and grubs/ plant). The next best treatments to 

follow were A. calamus @ 5% (2.87 adults and grubs/ plant) and Cristol 56 SL1% (2.93 adults 

and grubs/ plant). Highest population of weevil were observed in C. gigentia @ 5% (4.40 

adults and grubs/ pods / plant) and Cristol 74 GL 1% (4.47 weevils/ plant) as they were 

significantly superior over untreated control (7.80 adults and grubs/ plant) in reducing weevil 

populations (Table-18). 

Based on cumulative mean, NSKE @ 5% (2.33 adults and grubs/ plant) was 

significantly superior to other botanicals. Next best treatment to follow were V. negundo @ 

5% (2.53 adults and grubs/ plant) followed by A. calamus @ 5% (2.76 adults and grubs/ 

plant) and Cristol 56 SL1% (2.93 adults and grubs/ plant). The highest population of weevil 

were observed in C. gigentia @ 5% (4.18 adults and grubs/ plant) followed by Cristol 74 GL 

1% (4.33 adults and grubs/ plant). However, all these treatments were statistically superior 

over untreated control which recorded (7.60 adults and grubs/ plant) in reducing the weevil 

population. 


Observations on per cent pod damage due to botanicals recorded in table-19. The 

results revealed that among the different treatments evaluated, NSKE @ 5% significantly 

more effective (33.93%) in reducing pod damage than other botanicals. This treatment was 

followed by V. negundo @ 5% (37.67%) and A. calamus @ 5% (40.54%). Highest pod 

damage was recorded in C. gigentia @ 5% (51.68%) and Cristol 74 GL 1% (53.19%). 

However, all these treatment were significantly superior over untreated control (68.46%). 

As regards to the per cent reduction in pod damage compare to untreated check, the 

highest reduction in pod damage noticed in NSKE @ 5% (50.44%). This treatment was 

followed by Vitex negundo @ 5% (44.97%) and Achorus calamus @ 5% (40.78%). More 

than 30 per cent reduction in pod damage was recorded in Cristol 56 Sl @ 1% (37.18%), A. 

vesica @ 5% (31.86%) and Agave Americana @ 5% (33.72%). Whereas, C. gigentia @ 5% 

(24.50%) and Cristol 74 GL 1% (22.29%) showed less reduction in per cent pod damage. 


The per cent seed damage in different treatments ranged from 32.03 to 66.73 per 

cent. Among all the treatments, NSKE @ 5% recorded lowest seed damage (26.08%). This 

treatment was followed by Vitex negundo @ 5% (35.08%) and A. calamus @ 5% (38.50%). 

C. gigentia @ 5% (50.00%) and Cristol 74 GL 1% (51.11%) were less effective for controlling 

seed treatment. Whereas, untreated control recorded maximum (66.73) seed damage 

compare to all other treatments (Table-19). 

Maximum per cent reduction in seed damage over control was noticed in NSKE @ 

5% (51.99%). This treatment was followed by Vitex negundo @ 5% (47.44%) and Achorus 

calamus @ 5% (42.31%). More than 30 per cent reduction in pod damage was recorded in 

Cristol 56 Sl @ 1% (39.25%), A. vesica @ 5% (31.42%) and Agave Americana @ 5% 

(36.15%). Whereas, C. gigentia @ 5% (25.07%) and Cristol 74 GL 1% (23.40%) showed less 

reduction in per cent pod damage.



Treatment 

Neem oil @ 2% 3.93 bcd 

Mean number of adults per plant after 3 rd spray 


(2.22) 

NSKE @ 5% 2.53 f 

(1.88) 

Vitex negundo @ 5% 2.73 ef 

(1.93) 

Cristol 56 Sl @ 1% 3.00 c-f 

(2.00) 


(2.31) 

Agniastra@10% 3.73 b-e 

(2.18) 

Achorus calamus @ 5% 2.80 def 

(1.95) 

C.gigentia @ 5% 4.13 bc 

(2.27) 

Adhatoda vesica @ 5% 3.53 b-f 

(2.13) 

Agave americana@5% 3.27 b-f 

(2.07) 


(2.90) 

3.80 bcd 

(2.19) 

2.13 f 

(1.77) 

2.33 f 

(1.83) 

2.87 def 

(1.97) 

4.20 b 

(2.28) 

3.53 b-e 

(2.13) 

2.60 ef 

(1.90) 

4.00 bc 

(2.24) 

3.33 c-f 

(2.08) 

3.07 c-f 

(2.02) 

7.57 a 

(2.93) 

4.00 bc 

(2.24) 

2.33 f 

(1.83) 

2.53 ef 

(1.88) 

2.93 def 

(1.98) 

4.47 b 

(2.34) 

3.80 bcd 

(2.19) 

2.87 def 

(1.97) 

4.40 b 

(2.32) 

3.67 bcd 

(2.16) 

3.33 cde 

(2.08) 

7.80 a 

(2.97) 

3.91 bcd 

(2.22) 

2.33 i 

(1.83) 

2.53 h 

(1.88) 

2.93 fgh 

(1.98) 

4.33 b 

(2.31) 

3.69 cde 

(2.17) 

2.76 gh 

(1.94) 

4.18 bcd 

(2.28) 

3.51 def 

(2.12) 

3.22 efg 

(2.05) 

7.60 a 

(2.93) 

SEM ± 0.09 0.07 0.07 0.05 

CD 5% 0.26 0.21 0.19 0.15 

CV % 10.31 8.51 7.75 5.89 



0.05). 


Table 19: Effect of botanicals on pod and seed damage of greengram due to 

A. amplum 

Treatment 

Per cent 

pod 

damage 

Neem oil @ 2% 50.74 bc 

(45.41) 

NSKE @ 5% 33.93 f 

(35.61) 

Vitex negundo @ 5% 37.67 ef 

(37.84) 

Cristol 56 Sl @ 1% 43.00 cde 

(40.96) 

Cristol 74 Gl @ 1% 53.19 b 

(46.82) 

Agniastra @ 10% 48.76 bcd 

(44.26) 

Achorus calamus @ 5% 40.54 def 

(39.51) 

C. gigentia @ 5% 51.68 b 

(45.95) 


(43.05) 

Agave americana @ 5% 45.37 b - e 

(42.33) 


(55.83) 

Per cent 

reduction 

over control 

Per cent seed 

damage 

25.88 48.15 bcd 

(43.92) 

50.44 32.03 g 

(34.45) 

44.97 35.08 fg 

(36.25) 

37.18 40.54 def 

(39.49) 

22.29 51.11 b 

(45.62) 

28.77 47.79 bcd 

(43.71) 

40.78 38.50 efg 

(38.33) 

24.50 50.00 bc 

(44.98) 

31.86 45.76 b - e 

(42.55) 

33.72 42.61 c - f 

(40.72) 

- 66.73 a 

(54.76) 

Per cent 

reduction 

over control 

SEM ± 1.50 - 1.41 - 

CD 5% 4.41 - 4.14 - 

CV % 5.97 - 5.76 - 

27.84 

51.99 

47.44 

39.25 

23.40 

28.39 

42.31 

25.07 

31.42 

36.15 


(P= 0.05). 

Figure in the parenthesis are angular transformed values. 

-


Significantly highest grain yield (238.33 kg /ha) was obtained in NSKE @ 5% 

compared to all other botanicals. This was followed by Vitex negundo @ 5% (148 kg/ ha) and 

A. calamus @ 5% (138 kg/ ha). Less grain yield was recorded in C. gigentia @ 5% (61.00 kg/ 

ha) and Cristol 74 GL 1% (50.00 kg/ ha). Whereas, untreated control recorded less grain yield 

31.11 kg per ha compared to all other treatments (Table-20). 


Among the different treatments, NSKE @ 5% recorded highest gross income (Rs 

6000/ ha). This was followed by Vitex negundo @ 5% (Rs 3700/ ha) and Achorus calamus @ 

5% (Rs 3400/ ha). Whereas, Calotropis gigentia @ 5% (Rs 1541/ ha) and Cristol 74 GL 1% 

(Rs 1250/ ha) recorded lowest gross income (Table-20). 

4.3.7. Net income (Rs. / ha): 

Among the different treatments, NSKE recorded highest net income (Rs 11830/ ha) 

compared to other botanicals. This was followed by Vitex negundo @ 5% (Rs 3280/ ha) and 

A. calamus @ 5% (Rs 3030/ ha). Whereas, C. gigentia @ 5% was recorded lowest net 

income (Rs 1121/ ha) (Table-20). 

4.3.8 Benefit cost ratio 

Among the different treatments, highest Benefit: cost of 9.31 was obtained in NSKE 

5% followed by V. negundo (8.81), 4 gm/l (5.50) and A. calamus (8.21) (Table-20). 

4.3.9. Management of Apion amplum in greengram under organic production 

system 

Results on the effect of botanicals against on adults and grubs A. amplum are 

presented hereunder (Table- 21 to 22). 


The results revealed that a day before spray the initial population of A. amplum was 



Three days after treatment, significantly lowest number of weevil was recorded in 

NSKE @ 5% (2.53 weevils/ plant) which is on par with V. negundo @ 5% (2.80 weevils/ 

plant). The next based treatments to follow were A. calamus @ 5% (2.93 weevils/ plant), and 

Cristol 56 SL1% (3.93 weevils/ plant). Highest population of weevil were observed in C. 

gigentia @ 5% (3.93 weevils/ plant) followed by Cristol 74 GL 1% (4.13 weevils/ plant) as they 

were significantly superior over untreated control (6.20 weevils/ plant) (Table-21). 


Among all the treatments, NSKE @ 5% was significantly effective (2.33 adults and 

grubs/ plant) than other botanicals (Table-21). Next based treatment to follow were Vitex 

negundo @ 5% (2.60 weevil / plant) followed by A. calamus @ 5% (2.73 adults and grubs/ 

pods) and Cristol 56 SL1% (2.87 weevils/ plant). Highest population of weevil were observed 

in C. gigentia @ 5% (3.67 weevils/ plant) followed by Cristol 74 GL 1% (3.93 weevils/ plant) 

as they were significantly superior over untreated control (6.53 weevils/ plant).

Table 20: Effect of botanicals on grain yield in greengram under conventional 

ecosystem 

Treatment 

Yield 

(kg/ha) 

Increase 

over 

control 

(%) 

Gross 

income 

(Rs/ha) 

Cost of 

plant 

protection 

(Rs/ha) 

Net 

income 

(Rs/ha) 

B:C 

ratio 

Neem oil @ 2% 87.67 f 180.64 2191.67 1410 781.67 1.55 

NSKE @ 5% 238.33 a 667.74 5958.33 640 5318.33 9.31 

Vitex negundo @ 5% 148.00 b 377.41 3700.00 420 3280.00 8.81 

Cristol 56 Sl @ 1% 123.33 cd 296.77 3083.33 - - 

Cristol 74 Gl @ 1% 50.00 g 61.29 1250.00 - - 

Agniastra @ 10% 91.67 f 196.77 2291.67 540 1751.67 4.24 

Achorus calamus @ 

5% 138.00 bc 345.16 3450.00 420 3030.00 8.21 

C. gigentia @ 5% 61.67 g 100 1541.67 420 1121.67 3.67 

Adhatoda vesica @ 

5% 101.00 ef 225.8 2525.00 420 2105.00 6.01 

Agave americana @ 

5% 114.00 de 493.54 2850.00 420 2430.00 6.79 

Control 31.11 h 777.78 777.78 

SEM ± 0.04 

CD 5% 0.12 

CV % 10.65 


(P= 0.05). 



Seven days after treatment, significantly less population of weevil was found in NSKE 

@ 5% (2.47 weevils/ plant) which is on par with V. negundo @ 5% (2.80 weevils/ plant). The 

next best treatments to follow were A. calamus @ 5% (2.93 weevils/ plant), and Cristol 56 

SL1% (3.13 weevils/ plant). Highest population of weevil were observed in C. gigentia @ 5% 

(3.87 weevils/ plant) and Cristol 74 GL 1% (4.07 weevils/ plant) as they were significantly 

superior over untreated control (6.67 weevils/ plant) (Table-21). 

Based on cumulative mean, the results revealed that significantly less population of 

weevil were recoded in NSKE @ 5% (2.44 weevils/ plant) compared to other botanicals. This 

was followed by V. negundo @ 5% (2.73 weevils/ plant) and A. calamus @ 5% (2.87 weevils/ 

plant) and Cristol 56 SL1% (3.02 weevils/ plant). The highest population of weevil were 

observed in C. gigentia @ 5% (3.82 weevils/ plant) followed by Cristol 74 GL 1% (4.04 

weevils/ plant). However, all these treatments were statistically significant to untreated control 

which recorded 6.47 weevils par plant. 



NSKE @ 5% was significantly effective (1.93 adults and grubs/ plant) than other 

treatment after seven days of observation, which was on par with Vitex negundo @ 5% (2.13 

adults and grubs/ plant). The next based treatment to follow were A. calamus @ 5% (2.33 

adults and grubs/ plant), Cristol 56 SL1% (2.67 adults and grubs/ plant) and Agave 

Americana @ 5% (2.80 adults and grubs/ plant). Highest population of weevil were observed 

in C. gigentia @ 5% (3.53 adults and grubs/ plant) followed by Cristol 74 GL 1% (3.67 

weevils/ plant) as they were significantly superior over untreated control (6.80 adults and 

grubs/ plant) (Table-22). 


Among the all treatments NSKE @ 5% (1.733 adults and grubs/ plant) was 

significantly more effective compared to other botanicals (Table-22). Next best treatment to 

follow were V. negundo @ 5% (1.93 adults and grubs/ plant) , A. calamus @ 5% (2.13 adults 

and grubs/ plant) and Cristol 56 SL1% (2.33 adults and grubs/ plant). Significantly highest 

population of weevil were observed in C. gigentia @ 5% (3.27 adults and grubs/ plant) and 

Cristol 74 GL 1% (3.40 adults and grubs/ pods) as they were significantly superior over 

untreated control (7.00 adults and grubs/ plant). 


Seven days after treatment, significantly lowest number of weevils (2.00 adults and 

grubs/ plant) found in NSKE @ 5% which was at par with V. negundo @ 5% (2.13 adults and 

grubs/ plant). The next best treatment to follow were A. calamus @ 5% (2.40 adults and 

grubs/ pods) , Cristol 56 SL1% (2.60 adults and grubs/ pods) and A. americana@ 5% (2.73 

adults and grubs/ pods). Highest population of weevil were noticed in C. gigentia @ 5% (3.40 

adults and grubs/ pods) and Cristol 74 GL 1% (3.60 adults and grubs/ pods) as they were on 

per with untreated control (7.13 adults and grubs/ pods) (Table 22). 


weevils were recorded from NSKE @ 5% (1.89 weevils/ plant) compared to other botanicals. 

This was followed by V. negundo @ 5% (2.07 weevils/ plant), A. calamus @ 5% (2.29 

weevils/ plant) and Cristol 56 SL1% (2.53 weevils/ plant). The highest number of weevils 

population were observed in C. gigentia @ 5% (3.40 weevils/ plant) followed by Cristol 74 GL 

1% (3.56 weevils/ plant). However, all these treatments were statistically superior over 

untreated control which recorded (6.98 weevils / plant) in reducing the weevil population.

Table 21: Evaluation of botanicals against Apion amplum in greengram under organic 

ecosystem 

Treatment 

Neem oil @2% 5.53 a 

Mean number of adults per plant after 1 st 

spray 


(2.56) 

NSKE @5% 4.53 a 

(2.35) 

Vitex negundo @ 5% 4.73 a 

(2.39) 

Cristol 56 Sl @1% 4.93 a 

(2.44) 

Cristol 74 Gl @1% 5.73 a 

(2.59) 

Agniastra @ 10% 5.40 a 

(2.53) 

Achorus calamus @ 5% 4.67 a 

(2.38) 

Calotropis gigentia @5% 5.67 a 

(2.58) 

Adhatoda vesica @ 5% 5.27 a 

(2.50) 

Agave americana @ 5% 5.13 a 

(2.48) 


(2.61) 

3.73 bc 

(2.18) 

2.53 d 

(1.88) 

2.80 cd 

(1.95) 

3.07 bcd 

(2.02) 

4.13 b 

(2.27) 

3.60 bcd 

(2.14) 

2.93 cd 

(1.98) 

3.93 bc 

(2.22) 

3.33 bcd 

(2.08) 

3.20 bcd 

(2.05) 

6.20 a 

(2.68) 

3.47 bc 

(2.11) 

2.33 c 

(1.83) 

2.60 bc 

(1.90) 

2.87 bc 

(1.97) 

3.93 b 

(2.22) 

3.33 bc 

(2.08) 

2.73 bc 

(1.93) 

3.67 b 

(2.16) 

3.13 bc 

(2.03) 

3.00 bc 

(2.00) 

6.53 a 

(2.74) 

3.60 bc 

(2.14) 

2.47 c 

(1.86) 

2.80 bc 

(1.95) 

3.13 bc 

(2.03) 

4.07 b 

(2.25) 

3.53 bc 

(2.13) 

2.93 bc 

(1.98) 

3.87 bc 

(2.21) 

3.40 bc 

(2.10) 

3.20 bc 

(2.05) 

6.67 a 

(2.77) 

MEAN 

3.60 bcd 

(2.14) 

2.44 f 

(1.86) 

2.73 ef 

(1.93) 

3.02 def 

(2.01) 

4.04 b 

(2.25) 

3.49 bcd 

(2.12) 

2.87 ef 

(1.97) 

3.82 bc 

(2.20) 

3.29 cde 

(2.07) 

3.13 de 

(2.03) 

6.47 a 

(2.73) 

SEM ± 0.09 0.09 0.09 0.10 0.04 

CD 5% 0.27 0.25 0.28 0.31 0.13 

CV % NS 10.12 11.39 12.32 5.10 



0.05). 

DBS= Day Before Spraying. DAS= Day After Spraying.

Table 22: Evaluation of botanicals against Apion amplum in greengram under organic 

ecosystem 

Treatment 

Neem oil @ 2% 3.27 bc 

Mean number of adults per plant after 2 nd spray 


(2.07) 

NSKE @ 5% 1.93 e 

(1.71) 

Vitex negundo @ 5% 2.13 de 

(1.77) 

Cristol 56 Sl @ 1% 2.67 b-e 

(1.91) 


(2.16) 

Agniastra@10% 3.13 bcd 

(2.03) 

Achorus calamus @ 5% 2.33 cde 

(1.83) 

Calotropis gigentia @ 5% 3.53 b 

(2.13) 


(2.00) 

Agave americana@5% 2.80 b-e 

(1.95) 


(2.79) 

3.07 bc 

(2.02) 

1.73 d 

(1.65) 

1.93 cd 

(1.71) 

2.33 bcd 

(1.83) 

3.40 b 

(2.10) 

2.93 bcd 

(1.98) 

2.13 bcd 

(1.77) 

3.27 bc 

(2.07) 

2.73 bcd 

(1.93) 

2.53 bcd 

(1.88) 

7.00 a 

(2.83) 

3.20 bc 

(2.05) 

2.00 c 

(1.73) 

2.13 bc 

(1.77) 

2.60 bc 

(1.90) 

3.60 b 

(2.14) 

3.13 bc 

(2.03) 

2.40 bc 

(1.84) 

3.40 bc 

(2.10) 

2.93 bc 

(1.98) 

2.73 bc 

(1.93) 

7.13 a 

(2.85) 

3.18 bcd 

(2.04) 

1.89 g 

(1.70) 

2.07 fg 

(1.75) 

2.53 def 

(1.88) 

3.56 b 

(2.13) 

3.07 bcd 

(2.02) 

2.29 efg 

(1.81) 

3.40 bc 

(2.10) 

2.89 cde 

(1.97) 

2.69 def 

(1.92) 

6.98 a 

(2.82) 

SEM ± 0.08 0.10 0.11 0.05 

CD 5% 0.25 0.30 0.31 0.15 

CV % 10.30 12.46 12.82 6.06 



0.05). 

DBS= Day Before Spraying. DAS= Day After Spraying.

Table 23: Effect of botanicals on pod and seed damage of greengram due to 

A. amplum under organic ecosystem 

Treatment 

Per cent pod 

damage 

Neem oil @ 2% 51.41 

(45.79) 

NSKE @ 5% 31.33 

(34.02) 

Vitex negundo @ 5% 35.38 

(36.48) 

Cristol 56 Sl @ 1% 42.34 

(40.57) 

Cristol 74 Gl @ 1% 54.42 

(47.52) 

Agniastra @ 10% 47.00 

(43.25) 

Achorus calamus @ 5% 38.75 

(38.57) 

Calotropis gigentia @ 5% 52.65 

(46.51) 

Adhatoda vesica @ 5% 45.77 

(42.55) 

Agave americana @ 5% 43.81 

(41.43) 

Control 67.38 

(55.17) 

Per cent 

reduction 

over 

control 

Per cent 

seed damage 

23.70 49.23 

(44.54) 

53.50 30.92 

(33.77) 

47.50 34.03 

(35.63) 

37.17 39.75 

(39.04) 

19.24 53.11 

(46.77) 

30.24 46.70 

(43.09) 

42.49 37.16 

(37.54) 

21.86 51.00 

(45.55) 

32.07 45.76 

(42.55) 

34.97 41.07 

(39.82) 

65.51 

(54.04) 

Per cent 

reduction 

over 

control 

SEM ± 1.28 - 1.24 - 

CD 5% 3.77 - 3.66 - 

CV % 5.16 - 5.11 - 

24.84 

52.79 

48.05 

39.32 

18.92 

28.71 

43.27 

22.15 

30.15 

37.30 


0.05). 

Figure in the parenthesis are angular transformed values.

4.3.10 Per cent pod damage 

Observations on per cent pod damage due to botanicals recorded in table-23. The 

results revealed that among the different treatments evaluated, NSKE @ 5% significantly 

more effective (31.33%) in reducing pod damage than other treatments. This treatment was 

followed by V. negundo @ 5% (35.38%) and A. calamus @ 5% (38.75%). Highest pod 

damage was observed in C. gigentia @ 5% (52.65%) and Cristol 74 GL 1% (54.42%). 

However, all these treatments were significantly superior over untreated control (67.38%). 

As regards to the per cent reduction in pod damage compared to untreated check, 

the highest reduction in pod damage in NSKE @ 5% (53.50%). This treatment was followed 

by Vitex negundo @ 5% (47.50%) and Achorus calamus @ 5% (42.49%). More than 30 per 

cent reduction in pod damage was recorded in Cristol 56 Sl @ 1% (37.17%), Adhatoda vesica 

@ 5% (32.08%) and Agave Americana @ 5% (34.97%). Whereas, Calotropis gigentia @ 5% 

(21.86%) and Cristol 74 GL 1% (19.24%) showed less reduction in par cent pod damage. 



cent (Table-23). Among all the treatments, NSKE @ 5% was recorded lower seed damage 

(30.92%). This treatment was followed by V. negundo @ 5% (34.03%) and A. calamus @ 5% 

(37.16%). Highest seed damage was observed in C. gigentia @ 5% (51.00%) and Cristol 74 

GL 1% (53.11%). Whereas, untreated control recorded maximum (66.73 %) seed damage 

compared to other treatments. 

Maximum per cent reduction in seed damage over control was noticed in NSKE @ 

5% (52.79%) compared to other botanicals. This treatment was followed by V. negundo @ 

5% (48.05%) and A. calamus @ 5% (43.27%). More than 30 per cent reduction in pod 

damage was recorded in Cristol 56 Sl @ 1% (39.92%), Adhatoda vesica @ 5% (30.15%) and 

A. Americana @ 5% (37.30%). Whereas, Calotropis gigentia @ 5% (22.12%) and Cristol 74 

GL 1% (18.92%) was recorded less reduction in par cent pod damage compared to other 

botanicals . 


Significantly highest grain yield of 247.33 kg per ha was obtained in NSKE compared 

to all other botanicals (Table-24). This was followed by V. negundo @ 5% (128.33 kg/ ha) and 

A. calamus @ 5% (122.23 kg/ ha). Lowest grain yield was recorded in C. gigentia @ 5% 

(48.67 kg/ ha) and Cristol 74 GL 1% (47.00 kg/ ha). Whereas, untreated control recorded less 

grain yield 30.67 kg per ha compared to all other treatments. 


Among the botanical treatments, NSKE @ 5% recorded highest gross income of Rs 

6183.33 per ha compared to other botanicals. This was followed by Vitex negundo @ 5% 

(Rs3208.33/ ha) and Achorus calamus @ 5% (Rs 3058.33/ ha). Whereas, Calotropis gigentia 

@ 5% (Rs 1166.67/ ha) and Cristol 74 GL 1% (Rs 1433.33/ ha) recorded lowest gross 

income (Table-24). 


Among the different treatments, NSKE recorded highest net income of Rs 5653.33 

per ha compared to other botanicals. This was followed by V. negundo @ 5% (Rs 2938.33/ 

ha) and Achorus calamus @ 5% (Rs 2778.33/ ha). Whereas, C. gigentia @ 5% (Rs 1121/ ha) 

recorded lowest net income (Table-24) than other treatments. 


Among the different treatments, highest Benefit: Cost of 11.67 was obtained in NSKE 

5% followed by Vitex negundo 5% (11.46), and Achorus calamus 5% (10.92) (Table-24).

Table 24: Effect of botanicals on grain yield in greengram under organic ecosystem 

Treatment 

Yield 

(kg/ha) 

Increase 

over 

control 

(%) 

Gross 

income 

(Rs/ha) 

Cost of 

plant 

protection 

(Rs/ha) 

Net 

income 

(Rs/ha) 

I:B:C 

ratio 

Neem oil @ 2% 87.33 g 190 2183.33 1340 843.33 1.63 

NSKE @ 5% 247.33 a 723.33 6183.33 530 5653.33 11.67 

Vitex negundo @ 5% 128.33 b 326.66 3208.33 280 2928.33 11.46 

Cristol 56 Sl @ 1% 115.33 cd 283.33 2883.33 - - 

Cristol 74 Gl @ 1% 47.00 h 56.66 1166.67 - - 

Agniastra @ 10% 96.00 fg 220 2400.00 540 1860.00 4.44 

Achorus calamus @ 

5% 

Calotropis gigentia @ 

5% 

122.33 bc 300 3058.33 280 2778.33 10.92 

48.67 h 60 1216.67 280 936.67 4.35 

Adhatoda vesica @ 5% 99.00 ef 230 2475.00 280 2195.00 8.84 

Agave americana @ 

5% 

108.00 de 260 2700.00 280 2420.00 9.64 

Control 30.67 i 766.67 766.67 

SEM ± 0.03 

CD 5% 0.11 

CV % 6.66 



Yield (kg/ha) 

300 

250 

200 

150 

100 

50 

0 

Neem oil 

@ 2% 

NSKE @ 

5% 

Vitex 

negundo 

@ 5% 

Cristol 56 

Sl @ 1% 

Cristol 74 

Gl @ 1% 

Agniastra 

@ 10% 

Yield (kg/ha) 

Per cent pod damage 

Achorus 

calamus @ 

5% 

C. gigentia 

@ 5% 

Adhatoda 

vesica @ 

5% 

Agave 

americana 

@ 5% 

Control 

Fig. 7. Evaluation of pod damage and yield against Apion amplum through botanicals in conventional ecosystem 

80 

70 

60 

50 

40 

30 

20 

10 

0 

Per cent pod damage

4.4. Evaluation of insecticides for the management of Apion 

amplum 

4.4.1. Evaluation of insecticides against Apion amplum under Laboratory 

condition 

Different insecticides were evaluated for their efficacy on adult of A. amplum in in 

vitro. The result furnished in table-25 indicated that standard check Fenvalerate @ 0.5ml/l 

recorded cent per cent mortality of weevils at 72 hrs followed by Profenofos @ 2 ml/ l 

(96.67%) and Thiodicarb @ 1 g /l (80.00%). These treatments were followed by Indoxacarb 

@ 0.5ml/l (46.67%) and Methomyl @ 0.6g /l (40.00%). Other two treatments Emamectin 

benzoate@ 0.25 G /L (16.67%) and spinosad @ 0.2 ml/ l (13.33%) showed less mortality 

after 72 hrs of observation. Present study revealed that Fenvalerate @ 0.5ml/l showed 

highest mortality of weevil followed by Profenofos @ 2 ml/ l and Thiodicarb @ 1 g /l. 

4.4.2. Management of Apion amplum by newer molecule in greengram 

Observation on the effect of new molecules on A. amplum are presented hereunder 

(Table- 26 to 28). 


The results revealed that a day before spray the initial number of A. amplum was 


4.4.2.1.1. A day after treatment 

A day after first spray, Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l (2.27 weevils/ plant) was significantly 

superior to other insecticides (Table-26) in reducing weevil population. This treatment was 

followed by Profenofos @ 2 ml/l (2.40 weevils/ plant) and Indoxacarb @ 0.5ml/ l (2.60 

weevils/ plant) which may be on per with Methomyl @ 0.6g /l (2.80 weevils/ plant). 

Emamectin benzoate @ 0.25 g/l (3.33 weevils/ plant) and Thiodicarb @ 1 g/l (3.60 weevils/ 

plant) were less effective in reducing the weevils number however they were significantly 

superior over untreated check (5.93 weevils/ plant). 


Among the all treatments, Fenvalerate @ 0.5ml/l (1.87 weevils/ plant) was 

significantly effective than other insecticides (Table-26). Next best treatment to follow were 

Profenofos @ 2 ml/ l (2.00 weevils/ plant), which was on par with Indoxacarb @ 0.5ml/ l (2.20 

weevils/ plant) and Methomyl @ 0.6g /l (2.33 weevils/ plant). Emamectin benzoate@ 0.25 g /l 

(2.73 weevils/ plant) and Thiodicarb @ 1 g /l (3.20 weevils/ plant) were least effective in 

reducing the weevils number however they were significantly superior over untreated check 

(6.07 weevils/ plant). 


After five days treatment, Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l (2.07 weevils/ plant) was 

significantly superior to other treatments (Table-26). This treatment was followed by 

Profenofos @ 2 ml/l (2.20 weevils/ plant) and Indoxacarb @ 0.5 ml/ l (2.53 weevils/ plant) 

which was on par with Methomyl @ 0.6 g/l (2.67 weevils/ plant). Emamectin benzoate@ 0.25 

g/l (3.20 weevils/ plant) and Thiodicarb @ 1 g/l (3.33 weevils/ plant) were ineffective in 

reducing the weevils number however they were significantly superior over untreated check 

(6.20 weevils/ plant).

Table 25: Evaluation of insecticides against Apion amplum (Adult) under 


Treatment Dosage 

Spinosad (48SC) 0.2 ml/l 0.00 d 


24hr 48hr 72hr MEAN 

(9.09) 

Indoxacarb (14.5SC) 0.5ml/ l 13.33 c 

(21.41) 

Novaluron (10EC) 1 ml/ l 0.00 d 

(9.09) 

Thiodicarb (75WP) 1 g /l 13.33 c 

(21.41) 

Profenofos (50EC) 2 ml/ l 46.67 b 

(43.07) 

Fenvalerate (10EC) 0.5ml/l 53.33 a 

(46.89) 

Methomyl (40SP) 0.6g /l 13.33 c 

Emamectin benzoate 

(5SG) 

(21.41) 

0.25 g /l 0.00 d 

(9.09) 

13.33 e 

(21.41) 

33.33 d 

(35.25) 

0.00 g 

(9.09) 

60.00 c 

(50.75) 

86.67 b 

(68.56) 

93.33 a 

(75.01) 

33.33 d 

(35.25) 

6.67 f 

(14.96) 

13.33 f 

(21.41) 

46.67 d 

(43.07) 

6.67 g 

(14.96) 

80.00 c 

(63.41) 

96.67 b 

(79.45) 

100.00 a 

(89.96) 

40.00 e 

(39.22) 

16.67 f 

(24.09) 

8.89 e 

(18.16) 

31.11 d 

(33.89) 

2.22 f 

(11.37) 

51.11 c 

(45.62) 

76.67 b 

(61.09) 

82.22 a 

(65.04) 

28.89 d 

(32.50) 

7.78 e 

(17.06) 

SEM ± 0.32 0.44 0.29 0.20 

CD 1% 1.33 1.80 1.19 0.81 

CV % 2.46 1.95 1.06 0.97 


Means followed by same letters in a column are not statistically different by DMRT (P= 0.05).

Mortality percentage (%) 

90.00 

80.00 

70.00 

60.00 

50.00 

40.00 

30.00 

20.00 

10.00 

0.00 

Spinosad 

Novaleuron 

Profenophos 


Adults 

Thiodicarb 

Treatments 

Fenvalerate 

Indoxicarb 

Fig. 8. Evaluation of insecticide against A. amplum under laboratory condition 

Methomyl

Table 26: Evaluation of novel insecticides against Apion amplum in greengram under 



Spinosad (48SC) @ 0.2 

ml/l 


after 1 st spray 

1 DBS 1DAS 3DAS 5DAS 

4.73 a 

(2.39) 

Novaluron (10EC) @ 1 ml/ l 4.67 a 

(2.38) 

Profenofos (50EC) @ 2 ml/ l 4.40 a 


(5SG) 

@ 0.25 

g/l 

(2.32) 

4.93 a 

(2.44) 

Thiodicarb (75WP) @ 1 g /l 5.13 a 

(2.48) 

Fenvalerate (10EC) @ 0.5ml/l 4.00 a 

Indoxacarb (14.5SC) @ 0.5ml/ 

l 

(2.24) 

4.27 a 

(2.29) 

Methomyl (40SP) @ 0.6g /l 4.53 a 

(2.35) 


(2.51) 

3.13 bc 

(2.03) 

2.93 bc 

(1.98) 

2.40 bc 

(1.84) 

3.33 bc 

(2.08) 

3.60 b 

(2.14) 

2.27 c 

(1.81) 

2.60 bc 

(1.90) 

2.80 bc 

(1.95) 

5.93 a 

(2.63) 

2.80 bcd 

(1.95) 

2.53 bcd 

(1.88) 

2.00 cd 

(1.73) 

2.93 bcd 

(1.98) 

3.07 b 

(2.02) 

1.87 d 

(1.69) 

2.20 bcd 

(1.79) 

2.33 bcd 

(1.83) 

6.07 a 

(2.66) 

3.07 bcd 

(2.02) 

2.87 bcd 

(1.97) 

2.20 cd 

(1.79) 

3.20 bc 

(2.05) 

3.33 b 

(2.08) 

2.07 d 

(1.75) 

2.53 bcd 

(1.88) 

2.67 bcd 

(1.91) 

6.20 a 

(2.68) 

MEAN 

3.00 bcd 

(2.00) 

2.78 b - e 

(1.94) 

2.20 de 

(1.79) 

3.16 bc 

(2.04) 

3.33 b 

(2.08) 

2.07 e 

(1.75) 

2.44 cde 

(1.97) 

2.60 b - e 

(2.02) 

6.07 a 

(2.63) 

SEM ± 0.10 0.09 0.09 0.10 0.06 

CD 5% 0.29 0.28 0.26 0.30 0.17 

CV % NS 11.33 10.84 12.16 6.95 



(P=0.05). 


Grubs and adults /plant 

8.00 

7.00 

6.00 

5.00 

4.00 

3.00 

2.00 

1.00 

0.00 

Spinosad 

Novaleuron 

Profenophos 


Treatments 

Thiodicarb 

Fenvalerate 

Indoxicarb 

Methomyl 

Fig. 9. Effect of insecticides against grubs and adults of A. amplum in greengram 

grubs and adults 

Control

Based on cumulative mean, Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l (2.07 weevils/ plant) was 

significantly superior to other insecticides. Next best treatments to follow were Profenofos @ 

2 ml/l (2.20 weevils/ plant), Indoxacarb @ 0.5ml/ l (2.44 weevils/ plant) and Methomyl @ 0.6g 

/l (2.60 weevils/ plant). The lowest number of weevil reduction was observed in E. benzoate 

@ 0.25 g/l (3.16 weevils/ plant) and Thiodicarb @ 1 g/l (3.33 weevils/ plant). However, all 

these treatments were statistically superior over untreated control (6.07 weevils /plant) in 

reducing the weevil population. 


4.4.2.2.1. First days after treatment 

A day after first spray, Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l was significantly superior (1.73 weevils/ 

plant) than other insecticides (Table-27). This treatment was followed by Profenofos @ 2 ml/ l 

(1.93 weevils/ plant) and Indoxacarb @ 0.5 ml/ l (2.13 weevils/ plant) which is on par with 

Methomyl @ 0.6 g/l (2.27 weevils/ plant). E. benzoate @ 0.25 g/l (2.87 weevils/ plant) and 

Thiodicarb @ 1 g/l (3.00 weevils/ plant) were ineffective in reducing the weevil numbers 

however they were significantly superior over untreated check (6.40 weevils/ plant). 

4.4.2.2.2. Third days after treatment 

Among all the treatments, Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l (1.33 weevils/ plant) was 

significantly effective than other treatments (Table-27). Next best treatment to follow were 

Profenofos @ 2 ml/ l (1.53 weevils/ plant), which was on par with Indoxacarb @ 0.5ml/ l (1.80 

weevils/ plant) and Methomyl @ 0.6 g/l (1.93 weevils/ plant). E. benzoate @ 0.25 g/l (2.40 

weevils/ plant) and Thiodicarb @ 1 g/l (2.53 weevils/ plant) were least effective in reducing 

the weevils number however as they were significantly superior over untreated check (6.60 

weevils/ plant). 


Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l was significantly superior (1.60 weevils/ plant) than other 

treatments after five days of observation (Table-27). This treatment was followed by 

Profenofos @ 2 ml/ l (1.80 weevils/ plant) and Indoxacarb @ 0.5ml/ l (2.00 weevils/ plant) 

which is on par with Methomyl @ 0.6 g/l (2.20 weevils/ plant). However Emamectin 

benzoate@ 0.25 g/l (2.67 weevils/ plant) and Thiodicarb @ 1 g /l (2.73 weevils/ plant) were 

ineffective in reducing the weevil numbers as they were significantly superior over untreated 

check (6.70 weevils/ plant). 

Based on cumulative mean, Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l (1.56 weevils/ plant) was 

significantly superior than other treatments. This treatment was followed by Profenofos @ 2 

ml/ l (1.76 weevils/ plant) and Indoxacarb @ 0.5 ml/ l (1.98 weevils/ plant) which was on par 

with Methomyl @ 0.6 g/l (2.13 weevils/ plant). E. benzoate@ 0.25 g/l (2.64 weevils/ plant) and 

Thiodicarb @ 1 g /l (2.76 weevils/ plant) were ineffective in reducing the weevils number 

however they were significantly superior over untreated check (6.57 weevils/ plant). 

4.4.2.3. . A. amplum population after third spray 

4.4.2.3.1. First days after treatment 

A day after first spray, Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l was significantly superior (1.33 adults 

and grubs/ plant) than other insecticides (Table-28). This treatment was followed by 

Profenofos @ 2 ml/ l (1.53 adults and grubs/ plant) and Indoxacarb @ 0.5ml/ l (1.73 adults 

and grubs/ plant) which is on par with Methomyl @ 0.6g /l (1.87 adults and grubs/ pod). E. 

benzoate@ 0.25 g/l (2.40 adults and grubs/ plant) and Thiodicarb @ 1 g /l (2.53 adults and 

grubs/ plant) were ineffective in reducing the weevils number however they were significantly 

superior over untreated check (6.93 adults and grubs/ plant).




Spinosad (48SC) @ 0.2 ml/l 2.67 bcd 


after 2 nd spray 

1DAS 3DAS 5DAS 

(1.91) 

Novaluron (10EC) @ 1 ml/ l 2.53 bcd 

(1.88) 

Profenofos (50EC) @ 2 ml/ l 1.93 cd 


(5SG) 

@ 0.25 

g/l 

(1.71) 

2.87 bc 

(1.97) 

Thiodicarb (75WP) @ 1 g /l 3.00 b 

(2.00) 

Fenvalerate (10EC) @ 0.5ml/l 1.73 d 

(1.65) 

Indoxacarb (14.5SC) @ 0.5ml/ l 2.13 bcd 

(1.77) 

Methomyl (40SP) @ 0.6g /l 2.27 bcd 

(1.81) 


(2.72) 

2.20 bcd 

(1.79) 

2.07 bcd 

(1.75) 

1.53 cd 

(1.59) 

2.40 bc 

(1.84) 

2.53 b 

(1.88) 

1.33 d 

(1.53) 

1.80 bcd 

(1.67) 

1.93 bcd 

(1.71) 

6.60 a 

(2.76) 

2.47 bcd 

(1.86) 

2.33 bcd 

(1.83) 

1.80 cd 

(1.67) 

2.67 bc 

(1.91) 

2.73 b 

(1.93) 

1.60 d 

(1.61) 

2.00 bcd 

(1.73) 

2.20 bcd 

(1.79) 

6.70 a 

(2.77) 

MEAN 

2.44 bc 

(1.86) 

2.31 bcd 

(1.82) 

1.76 cd 

(1.66) 

2.64 b 

(1.91) 

2.76 b 

(1.94) 

1.56 d 

(1.60) 

1.98 bcd 

(1.73) 

2.13 bcd 

(1.77) 

6.57 a 

(2.75) 

SEM ± 0.09 0.09 0.07 0.06 

CD 5% 0.28 0.27 0.20 0.18 

CV % 11.73 11.38 8.46 7.44 



(P= 0.05). 





Spinosad (48SC) @ 0.2 ml/l 2.13 bcd 


after 3 rd spray 

1DAS 3DAS 5DAS 

(1.77) 

Novaluron (10EC) @ 1 ml/ l 2.00 bcd 

(1.73) 

Profenofos (50EC) @ 2 ml/ l 1.53 cd 


(5SG) 

(1.59) 

@ 0.25 g/l 2.40 bc 

(1.84) 


(1.88) 

Fenvalerate (10EC) @ 0.5ml/l 1.33 d 

(1.53) 

Indoxacarb (14.5SC) @ 0.5ml/ l 1.73 bcd 

(1.65) 

Methomyl (40SP) @ 0.6g /l 1.87 bcd 

(1.69) 


(2.82) 

1.93 bcd 

(1.71) 

1.73 bcd 

(1.65) 

1.13 cd 

(1.46) 

2.13 bc 

(1.77) 

2.27 b 

(1.81) 

0.93 d 

(1.39) 

1.47 bcd 

(1.57) 

1.60 bcd 

(1.61) 

7.10 a 

(2.85) 

2.27 bc 

(1.81) 

2.07 bcd 

(1.75) 

1.27 de 

(1.50) 

2.53 bc 

(1.88) 

2.67 b 

(1.91) 

1.13 e 

(1.46) 

1.67 cde 

(1.63) 

1.93 b - e 

(1.71) 

7.23 a 

(2.87) 

MEAN 

2.11 bc 

(1.76) 

1.93 bcd 

(1.71) 

1.31 de 

(1.52) 

2.36 b 

(1.83) 

2.49 b 

(1.87) 

1.13 e 

(1.46) 

1.62 cde 

(1.62) 

1.80 bcd 

(1.67) 

7.09 a 

(2.84) 

SEM ± 0.08 0.09 0.08 0.04 

CD 5% 0.25 0.27 0.24 0.13 

CV % 10.54 11.76 10.39 5.73 



(P= 0.05). 


4.4.2.3.2. Third days after treatment 

Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l was significantly superior (0.93 adults and grubs/ plant) than 

other insecticides after third days observation (Table-28). This treatment was followed by 

Profenofos @ 2 ml/l (1.13 adults and grubs/ plant) and Indoxacarb @ 0.5ml/ l (1.47 adults and 

grubs/ plant) which was on par with Methomyl @ 0.6g /l (1.60 adults and grubs/ pod). E. 

benzoate@ 0.25 g/l (2.13 adults and grubs/ pod) and Thiodicarb @ 1 g/l (2.27 adults and 

grubs/ plant) were ineffective in reducing the weevil number however they were significantly 

superior over untreated control (7.10 adults and grubs/ plant). 


Among the all treatments, Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l was significantly effective (1.13 

adults and grubs/ plant) than other insecticides (Table-28). Next best treatment to follow were 

Profenofos @ 2 ml/l (1.27 adults and grubs/ plant), which is on par with Indoxacarb @ 0.5ml/ l 

(1.67 weevils/ plant) followed by Methomyl @ 0.6g /l (1.93 adults and grubs/ plant). E. 

benzoate@ 0.25 G /L (2.53 adults and grubs/ plant) and Thiodicarb @ 1 g /l (2.67 adults and 

grubs/ plant) were least effective in reducing the weevil number however they were 

significantly superior over untreated check (7.23 adults and grubs/ plant). 

Based on cumulative mean, Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l (1.13 adults and grubs/ plant) 

was significantly effective than other treatments. Next best treatment was Profenofos @ 2 ml/ 

l (1.31 adults and grubs/ pod), Indoxacarb @ 0.5ml/ l (1.62 adults and grubs/ pod) and 

Methomyl @ 0.6g /l (1.80 adults and grubs/ pod). The lowest number of weevil reduction was 

observed in E. benzoate @ 0.25 g/l (2.36 adults and grubs/ pod) and Thiodicarb @ 1 g /l 

(2.49 adults and grubs/ pod). However, all these treatments were statistically significant to 

untreated control which recorded 7.09 adults and grubs/ pod. 


Observations on per cent pod damage due to new molecules recorded in table-29. 

The results revealed that among the different treatments evaluated, Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l 

(22.93%) in reducing pod damage significantly effective compared to other insecticides. 

However, this treatment was followed by Profenofos @ 2 ml/ l (25.82 %) and Indoxacarb @ 

0.5 ml/l (29.88 %). E. benzoate@ 0.25 g/l (40.51%) and Thiodicarb @ 1 g/l (45.45 %) were 

least effective. However, all these treatment were significantly superior over untreated control 

(63.91%). 

As regards to the per cent reduction in pod damage, the highest reduction in pod 

damage noticed in Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l (64.12%). This treatment was followed by 

Profenofos @ 2 ml/ l (59.59%) and Indoxacarb @ 0.5 ml/ l (53.25 %). More than 40 per cent 

reduction in pod damage was recorded in Methomyl @ 0.6g /l (48.33%) and Novaleuron @ 1 

ml/ l (44.96 %). Whereas, E. benzoate@ 0.25 g/l (36.61 %) and Thiodicarb @ 1 g/l (28.88 %) 

showed less reduction in per cent pod damage. 



cent. Among all the treatments, Fenvalerate @ 0.5 ml/l (24.86 %) was more effective than 

other insecticides. This treatment was followed by Profenofos @ 2 ml/ l (27.42 %) and 

Indoxacarb @ 0.5ml/ l (31.80%). E. benzoate @ 0.25 g/l (42.22%) and Thiodicarb @ 1 g/l 

(46.05%) were least effective in reducing seed damage. Whereas, untreated control recorded 

maximum of 65.75 per cent seeds damage compared to other treatments (Table-29). 

Maximum per cent reduction in seed damage over control was noticed in Fenvalerate 

(62.19%). This treatment was followed by Profenofos @ 2 ml/ l (58.30%) and Indoxacarb @ 

0.5 ml/ l (51.64%). Whereas, E. benzoate@ 0.25 g/l (35.48%) and Thiodicarb @ 1 g /l 

(29.97%) showed less reduction in per cent pod damage.

Table 29: Effect of insecticides on pod and seed damage of greengram due to 

A. amplum under conventional ecosystem 


Per cent 

pod 

damage 

Spinosad (48SC) @ 0.2 ml/l 38.97 bc 

(38.59) 

Novaluron (10EC) @ 1 ml/ l 35.18 cd 

(36.34) 

Profenofos (50EC) @ 2 ml/ l 25.82 ef 


(5SG) 

(30.52) 

@ 0.25 g/l 40.51 bc 

(39.51) 


(42.35) 

Fenvalerate (10EC) @ 0.5ml/l 22.93 f 

(28.55) 

Indoxacarb (14.5SC) @ 0.5ml/ l 29.88 de 

(33.12) 

Methomyl (40SP) @ 0.6g /l 33.02 cd 

(35.05) 


(53.06) 

Per cent 

red over 

control 

Per cent 

seed 

damage 

39.02 39.62 cd 

(38.99) 

44.96 37.77 cd 

59.59 

(37.90) 

27.42 fg 

(31.55) 

36.61 42.42 bc 

(40.62) 

28.88 46.05 b 

(42.72) 

64.12 24.86 g 

(29.89) 

53.25 31.80 ef 

(34.29) 

48.33 34.85 de 

(36.15) 

65.75 a 

(54.20) 

SEM ± 1.43 0.93 

CD 5% 4.30 2.79 

CV % 6.63 4.19 

Per 

cent red 

over 

control 

39.74 

42.55 

58.30 

35.48 

29.97 

62.19 

51.64 

47.00 


(P= 0.05). 

Figure in the parenthesis are angular transformed values.

Table 30: Effect of biopesticides on grain yield in greengram under conventional 

ecosystem 


Spinosad 

(48SC) 

Novaluron 

(10EC) 

Profenofos 

(50EC) 

Emamectin 

benzoate 

(5SG) 

Thiodicarb 

(75WP) 

Fenvalerate 

(10EC) 

Indoxacarb 

(14.5SC) 

Methomyl 

(40SP) 

@ 0.2 ml/l 

@ 1 ml/ l 

@ 2 ml/ l 

Yield 

(kg/ha) 

Increase 

over 

control 

(%) 

Gross 

income 

(Rs/ha) 

Cost of 

plant 

protection 

(Rs/ha) 

Net 

income 

(Rs/ha) 

I:B:C 

ratio 

403.33 d 815.9 10083.33 3810 6273.33 2.65 

420.67 d 856.81 10516.67 4935 5581.67 2.13 

480.00 b 990.9 12000.00 855 11145.00 14.04 

@ 0.25 g/l 371.67 e 745.45 9291.67 3585 5706.67 2.59 

@ 1 g /l 

@ 0.5ml/l 

@ 0.5ml/ l 

@ 0.6g /l 

299.00 f 579.54 7466.67 2910 4556.67 2.57 

506.67 a 1052.27 12666.67 420 12246.67 30.16 

460.00 bc 945.45 11500.00 2572.5 8927.50 4.47 

446.67 c 915.9 11166.67 1146 10020.67 9.74 

Control 44.44 g 1111.11 1111.11 

SEM ± 0.15 

CD 5% 0.44 

CV % 12.22 


Fenvalerate= 280/lt, Indoxacarb=3150/lt, Thiodicarb= 900/500gm, Emamectin benzoate= 

900/100gm, Profenofos = 430/lt, Methomyl= 1040/kg, Novaluron= 3150/lt, Spinosad= 900/ 

75lt. 


Yield (kg/ha) 

600 

500 

400 

300 

200 

100 

0 

Spinosad Novaleuron Profenophos Emamectin 

benzoate 

Yield kg/ ha 

per cent pod damage 

Thiodicarb Fenvalerate Indoxicarb Methomyl Control 

Fig. 10. Evaluation of pod damage and yield against Apion amplum through insecticide 

70 

60 

50 

40 

30 

20 

10 

0 

Per cent pod damage


Significantly highest grain yield of 506.67 kg per ha was obtained in Fenvalerate 

(Table-25) compared to all other treatments. This was followed by Profenofos @ 2 ml/ l 

(480.00 kg/ ha) and Indoxacarb @ 0.5ml/ l (460 kg/ ha).Lowest grain yield was recorded in E. 

benzoate@ 0.25 g/l (371.00 kg/ ha) and Thiodicarb @ 1 g /l (299.00 kg/ ha). Whereas, 

untreated control recorded less grain yield 44.44 kg per ha compared to all other treatments 

(Table-30). 


Among the different treatments, Fenvalerate recorded highest gross income of Rs 

12666.67 per ha. This was followed by Profenofos (Rs 12000/ ha) and Indoxacarb (Rs 11500/ 

ha). Whereas, E. benzoate (Rs 9291.67/ ha) and Thiodicarb (Rs 8333.33/ ha) recorded 

lowest gross income (Table-30). 


Among the different treatments, Fenvalerate recorded highest net income of Rs 

12246.67 per ha. This was followed by Profenofos (Rs 11145.00/ ha) and Methomyl (Rs 

10020.67/ ha). Whereas, E. benzoate (Rs 5706.67/ ha) and Thiodicarb (5423.33/ ha) 

recorded lowest net income (Table-30). 

4.4.8 Benefit cost ratio 

Among the different treatments, highest Benefit: Cost of 30.16 was obtained in 

Fenvalerate followed by Profenofos (14.04). Least B:C ratio found E. benzoate (2.59) and 

Thiodicarb (2.57) (Table-30).

5. DISCUSSION 

Pest complex of any crop is not static in time and space, particularly in the context of 

its economic significance in crop production. In recent past, changing pest scenario has been 

reported the topic of discussion on the national and international forum. The post green 

revolution period which exhibited the phenomenal growth in production and also witnessed an 

increase in pest problems, where a less heard or minor pest assuming major status and thus 

becoming a production constraint. One such pest on greengram is seed weevil Apion amplum 

(Faust).The seed weevil has assumed an economic importance by showing considerable 

increase in pest status during past one decade and has becoming a regular pest in certain 

region of greengram growing areas of North Karnataka. 

It is necessary to understand the details about its seasonal incidence, natural enemy 

complex, and different management (Biopesticides, Botanicals and New molecules) practices. 

The information on the above aspects with A. amplum in greengram ecosystem is scanty. 

Therefore, it is essential to generate the research data on the pest. Hence, the present study 

was undertaken and salient finding of the various aspects of the investigations are discussed 

in the light of earlier work done in the present chapter. 


5.1.1. Seasonal occurrence 

Incidence 

The studies undertaken during 2008 clearly indicated that the weevil incidence 

commenced on 15 days old greengram crop sown during first fortnight of July 2008 and 

incidence peak was attained during 30 th and 45 th day after sowing (5.40 to 6.40 weevils/ 

plant) respectively. Afterwards population was declined. So present study indicated that first 

fortnight of July sown crop was showing more incidences compared to second fortnight of 

July sown crop. 

Present findings are in conformity with finding of Basvana Goud and Vastrad (1994) 

noticed that A. amplum attack on the pods of blackgram from July to September. 

Sharanabasappa (2002) also reported that greengram sown during first fortnight of July had 

the maximum pod (55.62%) and seed (62.20%) damage due to seed weevil, which was 

significantly higher than other dates of sowing. Umesha (2006) also noticed that crop sown in 

July recording the highest number of weevils per pod 6.96, per cent pod damage (63.30%) 

and per cent seed damage (69.68%) followed by crop sown in June (46.66 and 51.13) and 

August (38.66 and 44.33) pod and seed damage against A. amplum in greengram. Adimani 

(1976) reported that A. amplum was noticed on soybean crop from June to January. 

5.1.2. Natural enemy complex on Apion amplum 

During the survey no predators and parasitoids were found neither on grub nor on the 

adults. However during the study period Beauveria bassiana found infecting the adult stage. 

This is the first report of B. bassiana on A. amplum. 

5.2 Management of A. amplum with biopesticides and botanicals 

5.2.1 Management of A. amplum by biopesticides 

Use of botanicals and bioagents is one of the environmentally safe methods in IPM. 

The present investigations were carried out to find out the efficacy of different biopesticides 

for management of seed weevil, A. amplum on greengram under both field and laboratory 

conditions. Spraying was done at thrice (20 DAS, 50 % flowering and 7 days after pod setting) 

in conventional ecosystem and twice (50 % flowering and 7 days after pod setting) in organic 

production system.

(B) 

(D) 

(A) 

Plate 3: Adult Apion amplum infected by Beauveria bassiana 

(C)

5.2.1.1 Evaluation of biopesticides against A. amplum under Laboratory condition 

Among the biopesticides, Bacillus thuringiensis was effective in causing cent persent 

mortality within eleven days after spraying. Whereas, Beauveria bassiana @ 4 g/l and 

Metarrhizium anisopliae @ 4g /l showed 90.00 and 76.67 per cent mortality at the sama 

duration. B. thuringiensis was more effective to control A. amplum compared to other 

biopesticides in laboratory condition. The literature on this aspect pertaining to the pest is 

lacking to compare the present findings. 

5.2.1.2 Population of A. amplum adults and grubs 

Bacillus thuringiensis 1 ml/l was superior in reducing both adults as well as grubs 

after three spraying in conventional ecosystem and two spraying in organic ecosystem 

respectively as compared to other biopesticides. This treatment was followed by B. bassiana 

4 g/l and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l. B. bassiana @ 2 g/l and M. anisopliae 2 g/l were found less 

effective compared to the higher doses however they were found superior over untreated 

control. 

The literature on this aspect of study is scanty to compare and discuss the present 

results and therefore this study forms first of its kind. The present findings are agreed with the 

results of Das and Singh (1998) reported that among the microbials, B.thuringiensis was 

found effective against A. corchori in jute ecosystem. 

5.2.1.3 Pod and seed damage 

Studies on the efficacy of biopesticides indicated that, Bacillus thuringiensis (38.05% 

and 36.00%) and (36.50% and 34.90%) were more effective in reducing the pod and seed 

damage in conventional ecosystem and organic ecosystem, respectively. This was followed 

by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l (42.08%, 41.17% and 43.02%, 43.44%) and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l 

(46.30%,44.96% and 47.42%,46.14%). Whereas, B. bassiana @ 2 g/l and M. anisopliae @ 2 

g/l were found inferior to the higher dosages in reducing the pod and seed damage. However, 

all these treatments were significantly superior over untreated control. 

The literature on this aspect pertaining to the pest is lacking to compare the present 

findings. 

5.2.1.4 Grain yield 

The result revealed that B. thuringiensis was found effective in registering highest 

grain yield in both conventional and organic system (340 and 332 kg/ ha respectively) and it 

was followed by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l. Whereas, lowest yield was 

recorded from untreated control (33.78 and 29.78 kg/ ha respectively). 

When Benefit: cost ratio was considered, Bacillus thuringiensis proved better in 

recording higher B: C ratio of (5.99 and 6.56 respectively) followed by B .bassiana 4 g/l and 

M. anisopliae 4g/l. The literature on this aspect is lacking to compare present findings as it is. 

5.2.2 Management of A. amplum with botanicals 

Use of botanicals and bioagents is one of the environmentally safe methods in IPM. 

The present work was carried out to find out the efficacy of botanicals against seed weevil A. 

amplum under field and laboratory condition. Spraying was done at three times (20 DAS, 50 

% flowering and 7 days after pod setting) in conventional ecosystem and two times (50 % 

flowering and 7 days after pod setting) organic ecosystem. 

5.2.2.1 Evaluation of botanical against A. amplum under laboratory condition 

Among the botanicals, NSKE was found effective in causing cent persent mortality 

five days after spraying. Whereas, V. negundo @ 5% showed cent per cent mortality eleven 

days after spraying followed by Cristol 56 SL1% . So NSKE @ 5% was more effective to 

control A. amplum compared to other botanicals in laboratory condition. The literature on this 

aspect pertaining to the pest is lacking to compare the present findings.

5.2.2.3 Population of A. amplum adults and grubs 

Studies on the efficacy of botanicals indicated that among the botanicals tested, 

NSKE was found more effective to reducing the grubs and weevils numbers in both 

ecosystems compared to other botanicals. This was followed by Vitex negundo @ 5% and 

Cristol 56 SL @ 1%. Whereas C. gigentia and Cristol 74 GL @ 1% were found inferior in the 

management of A. amplum in both the ecosystem. 

The literature on this aspect pertaining to the pest is lacking to compare the present 

findings. Btudea (1996) reported that sole application of NSKE 5 %, cow dung, and cow urine 

are not found effective in managing the pod borer complex of pigeon pea. 

5.2.2.4 Pod and seed damage 

Studies on the efficacy of botanicals indicated that, NSKE @ 5% were more effective 

in reducing the pod and seed damage in conventional ecosystem (33.93% and 31.33%) and 

organic system(32.03% and 30.92%), respectively. This was followed by Vitex negundo and 

Cristol 56 SL. Whereas, C. gigentia @ 5% and Cristol 74 GL @ 1% was found inferior in 

reducing the damage compared to other botanicals. However, all these treatments were 

significantly superior to untreated control. 

Per cent reduction in pod and seed damage over control was recorded highest in 

NSKE compared to other botanicals. The literature on this aspect pertaining to the pest is 

very scanty to compare the present findings. Akhauri and Yadav (1999) agrees with the 

present results where two applications of phytoextracts, first at 50 pr cent flowering followed 

by second at 50 per cent pod formation against A. clavipes on redgram was made. NSKE and 

Neem oil (2%) recorded least of 7.7 and 7.4 per cent pod damage respectively. NSKE and 

Neem oil proved effective in lowering the pod damage by 24.8 and 29.5 per cent, respectively 

over untreated control. 

5.2.2.5 Grain yield 

The results revealed that NSKE @ 5% was found effective in registering highest grain 

yield (238.33and 247.33 kg/ ha) in both ecosystem and it was followed by Calotropis gigentia 

and Cristol 56 SL.Whereas, lowest yield was recorded from untreated control (30.67 and 

31.11 kg/ ha). 

When incremental benefit: cost ratio was considered, NSKE proved better in 

recording higher I: B: C ratio of (9.31 and 11.67) followed by Calotropis gigentia and Cristol 56 

SL. The literature on this aspect pertaining to the pest is lacking to compare the present 

findings. 

5.3 Management of A. amplum by insecticides 

The present investigations were carried out to find out the efficacy of different 

insecticides for management of seed weevil, A. amplum on greengram. Spraying was done at 

three times (20 DAS, 50 % flowering and 7 days after pod setting).The result indicated that 

bioefficacy of synthetic insecticides in the management of seed weevil was relatively superior 

compared to other groups viz., Botanicals and biopesticides. 

5.3.1 Evaluation of insecticides A. amplum under laboratory condition 

Among the insecticides, fenvalerate was found very effective and caused cent 

percent mortality within 72 hours after spraying. This was followed by Profenophos (96.67%) 

and Thiodicarb (80.00%) after 72 hrs observation. Lowest mortality was recorded from 

spinosad (8.89%). The literature on this aspect pertaining to the pest is lacking to compare 

the present findings. However the present findings agree with the results of Das et al. (1986), 

where fenvalerate 0.005% showed cent per cent mortality of A. corchori in Jute.

Plate 4: Adult Apion amplum nibbling the pods 

Plate 5: Shot holes symptom caused by Apion amplum

5.3.2 Evaluation of insecticides in field 

Fenvalerate @ 0.5ml/lt was more effective in reducing both adults and grubs after 

one, three and five days after three spraying in conventional ecosystem. This was followed by 

Profenophos @ 2 ml/lt and Indoxicarb @ 0.5 ml/l. Whereas, Emamectin benzoate @ 0.25 g/lt 

and Thiodicarb 1 g/lt was found least effective compared to other insecticides. Untreated 

control recorded maximum number of adults and grubs compared to all other treatments. 

The present findings agree with the results of Sharanabasappa (2002) recorded least 

of adult and grubs of A. amplum in the plot treated with fenvalerate compared to other 

insecticides. Umesha (2006) reported that fenvalerate was found more effective in reducing 

weevils in greengram ecosystem followed by spinosad and chlorpyriphos. Bjorkman (1987) 

also reported studied that fenvalerate was found effective in managing adults and grubs of A. 

aprican in pigeonpea. 

5.3.3 Pod and seed damage 

Studies on the efficacy of insecticides in reducing pod and seed damage in 

greengram indicated that, fenvalerate pod and seed damage was more effective in reducing 

the pod (22.23%) and seed (24.86%) damage. This was followed by Profenphos (25.82% and 

27.42%) and Indoxicarb (29.88% and 31.80%). Whereas E. benzoate (40.10% and 42.42%) 

and Thiodicarb (45.45% and 46.05%) were found inferior compared to other insecticides in 

reducing pod and seed damage respectively. However, all these treatments were significantly 

superior to untreated control (63.91% and 65.75%). 

When per cent reduction in pod and seed damage over control was recorded highest 

in fenvalerate (64.12% and 62.19%) compared to other insecticides. The present finding 

agrees with the results recorded by Sharanabasappa (2002). The reported that fenvalerate 

0.4% dustable powder recorded least per cent pod (14.00%) and seed damage (16.00%) due 

to A. amplum on greengram. Umesha (2006) also reported that fenvalerate (20 kg/ ha) was 

found more effective in least per cent pod (17.33%) and seed (19.00%) damage by A.amplum 

in greengram followed by spinosad (0.2 ml/l). 

5.3.4 Grain yield 

The result revealed that fenvalerate is found effective in registering highest grain yield 

of (506.67 kg/ ha) and it was followed by Profenophos (480 kg/ ha) and Indoxacarb (460 kg/ 

ha). Whereas, lowest yield was recorded from untreated control (44.44 kg/ ha). 

When incremental benefit: cost ratio was considered, fenvalerate proved better in 

recording higher I: B: C ratio of 30.16 followed by Profenophos (14.04) and Indoxicarb (4.47). 

Sharanabasappa (2002) reported that fenvalerate dust recorded highest grain yield (5.97q/ 

ha) and higher B: C ratio (3.45) against A. amplum. Umesha (2006) reported that fenvalerate 

dust recorded highest grain yield (6.05q/ ha) and higher B: C ratio (2.33) against A. amplum. 

Chiranjeevi et al. (2002) reported that fenvalerate and monocrotophos were highly effective 

with cost benefit ratio of 1:1.9 and 1:1.6 respectively which agrees with present findings. 

Future line of work 

� Details study with respect to Profenofos as it is having ovicidal property.

6. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION 

Investigations based on the seasonal incidence, natural enemy complex and 

management of Apion amplum (Faust) on greengram under field and laboratory conditions 

ware undertaken at the Main Agriculture Research Station, University of Agricultural 

Sciences, Dharwad during 2008-09. 

Studies on incidence revealed that A. amplum was in peak activity on the crop sown 

during first fortnight of July recorded the highest mean numbers of weevils (4.57 and 4.70/ 

plant) followed by second fortnight of July (4.13 and 3.70 / plant) sown crop. However, there 

was a decline in the pest numbers on the crop sown during subsequent periods. 

Beauveria bassiana found infective to adults and grubs and has been reported for the 

first time on A. amplum. 

Evaluation of different biopesticides revealed that the application of Bacillus 

thuringiensis @ 1 ml/ l caused cent per cent mortality compared to other biopesticides after 

eleven days of observation. Next best treatments to follow were Beauveria bassiana @ 4 g/l 

and Metarrhizium anisopliae @ 4g/l. 

Under field condition, among the biopesticides, B. thuringiensis @ 1 ml/ l was 

significantly superior in reducing mean weevil numbers, pod and seed damage to greengram. 

This was followed by B. bassiana @ 4 g/l and M. anisopliae @ 4g/l in reducing mean weevil 

numbers, pod and seed damage to greengram. Bacillus thuringiensis recorded highest grain 

yield of 340.00 and 332.00 kg/ ha. However, when cost effectiveness was considered, B. 

thuringiensis (5.59 and 6.56) sprays proved better in recording highest B: C ratio. 

Evaluation of different botanicals revealed that the application of NSKE @ 5% 

recorded cent per cent mortality compared to other botanicals after five days of observation. 

Next best treatments in the order of efficacy were Vitex negundo @ 5% and Cristol 56 SL 1%. 

Under field condition, among the botanicals, NSKE @ 5% was found more effective in 

reducing mean weevil numbers, pod and seed damage to greengram. This was followed by 

Vitex negundo @ 5% and Cristol 56 SL1% in reducing mean weevil numbers, pod and seed 

damage to greengram. NSKE recorded highest grain yield of 238.33 and 247.33 kg/ ha. 

However, when cost effectiveness was considered, Bacillus thuringiensis (9.31 and 11.67) 

sprays proved better in recording highest B: C ratio. 

Evaluation of different insecticides revealed that the application of Fenvalerate @ 

0.5ml/l was found very effective by recording cent per cent mortality compared to other 

insecticides after 72 hours of observation. Next best treatments to follow were Profenophos 

@ 2 ml/ l and Thiodicarb @ 1 g /l. 

Under field condition, among the insecticides, Fenvalerate @ 0.5ml/l significantly was 

found superior in reducing mean weevil numbers, pod and seed damage to greengram. This 

was followed by Profenophos @ 2 ml/ l and Indoxacarb @ 0.5ml/ l in reducing mean weevil 

numbers, pod and seed damage to greengram. Fenvalerate recorded highest grain yield of 

506.67 kg/ ha. However, when cost effectiveness was considered, fenvalerate (30.16) sprays 

proved better in recording highest B: C ratio. 

Conclusion 

• Among the two different dates of sowing, A. amplum activity was at its peak during 

first fortnight of July compared to second fortnight of July. 

• Beauveria bassiana was found first pathogenic to A. amplum in greengram. As the 

concentration increased the mortality also increased (10 4 to 10 7 conidia/ g). After 10 

days of observation B. bassiana recorded cent per cent mortality against A. amplum 

@ 10 7 conidia/ g. 

• Among the biopesticides, Bacillus thuringiensis 1 ml/ l was more effective to control 

A. amplum followed by B. bassiana @ 4 g/ l and Metarrhizium anisopliae @ 4 g/ l. 

• Among the botanicals NSKE @ 5% was found most effective insecticides to control 

A. amplum followed by Vitex negundo @ 5%. 

• Overall the insecticides are far better than biopesticides and botanicals. Fenvalerate 

@ 0.5 ml/ l is one of the most prominent insecticides to control A. amplum followed by 

Profenofos @ 2 ml/ l.

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APPENDIX 

Monthly meteorological data during crop growth period (2008-09) and the average of 58 years (1950-2008) at Main Agricultural Research 

Station, UAS, Dharwad 

Months 

Rainfall (mm) Temperature ( o C) Relative humidity (%) 

2008-09 1950-2008 

Mean maximum Mean minimum 

2008-09 1950-2008 2008-09 1950-2008 

2008-09 1950-2008 

April 28.8 49.3 34.7 37.3 20.4 19.8 80.4 75.6 

May 55.8 80.2 35.1 33.7 20.6 21.3 85.1 66.2 

June 101.6 114.2 28.7 28.8 21.0 22.4 91.8 81.1 

July 121.0 152.4 28.2 29.1 20.7 21.0 91.3 87.1 

August 213.2 98.5 26.9 26.9 20.1 20.0 91.5 86.0 

September 162.4 104.9 27.8 28.5 20.0 19.9 91.4 82.1 

October 60.4 126.9 30.3 30.0 18.9 18.4 83.5 75.8 

November 72.2 33.0 29.3 30.1 15.9 15.9 79.4 68.0 

December 0.0 5.2 28.6 29.3 13.8 12.5 75.4 63.2 

January 0.0 0.1 29.8 29.6 13.3 14.6 66.6 63.1 

February 0.0 1.1 33.2 31.2 16.8 16.3 57.5 51.5 

March 29.0 2.3 35.0 32.4 19.9 19.5 73.0 56.0 

Total 844.4 768.4

MANAGEMENT OF Apion amplum (Faust.) (Apionidae: 

Coleoptera) IN GREENGRAM 

TAMOGHNA SAHA 2009 Dr. R. K. PATIL 

MAJOR ADVISOR 

ABSTRACT 

Investigations on the seasonal incidence, natural enemy complex, and management 

of Apion amplum (Faust) by biopesticides, botanicals, and novel insecticides were carried out 

at the Department of Entomology. UAS, Dharwad during kharif 2008-09. 

The seasonal incidence Studies revealed that A. amplum was in peak activity on the 

crop sown in first fortnight of July recording the highest mean numbers of weevils (4.77 / 

plant) was noticed followed by second fortnight of July. 

Under laboratory conditions Beauveria bassiana found infective to adults of A. 

amplum and it is the first report on this pest. 

Evaluation of different biopesticides revealed that the application of Bacillus 

thuringiensis @ 1 ml/ l was found effective as compared to other biopesticides after eleven 

days of observation. In field evaluation also B. thuringiensis @ 1 ml/ l found significantly 

superior in reducing pod (38.05%) and seed (36.00%) damage to greengram. 

Evaluation of different botanicals revealed that the application of NSKE @5% was 

found superior as compared to other botanicals after five days of observation. In field 

evaluation also NSKE @ 5% was found more effective in reducing pod (33.93%) and seed 

(32.03%) damage to greengram. 

Evaluation of different insecticides revealed that the application of fenvalerate 20 EC 

@ 0.5ml/l was found significantly superior in bringing of adults mortality compared to other 

insecticides after 72 hours of observation. In field evaluation also fenvalerate 20 EC @0.5ml/l 

significantly superior in reducing pod (22.93%) and seed (24.86%) damage to greengram. 

The evaluation of biopesticides, botanicals and insecticides under field conditions 

revealed that among the biopesticides B. thuringiensis recorded highest I:B:C ratio of 5.99, 

while among botanicals NSKE @ 5% recorded highest I:B:C ratio of 9.31 and among 

insecticides fenvalerate 20 EC @ 0.5ml/l recorded highest I:B:C ratio of 30.16.

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