Seasonal Incidence of Sesame Leaf Webber and Capsule Borer Antigastra catalaunalis (Duponchel) on Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

Abstract

The present investigation was conducted during Kharif 2023 to study the seasonal incidence of sesame leaf webber and capsule borer, Antigastra catalaunalis (Duponchel), in relation to weather parameters under field conditions at Agricultural Research farm of B.R.D. P.G. College, Deoria (U.P.). Results showed that the population of Antigastra catalaunalis commenced during the 32nd standard meteorological week (SMW), with larval population peaking in the 37th SMW (21.40 larvae/10 plants), while maximum capsule damage (52.10%) was recorded during the 41st SMW, indicating a lag between population buildup and damage. Correlation analysis revealed that relative humidity, rainfall and minimum temperature positively influenced pest population, whereas maximum temperature and evaporation showed negative associations. Multiple regression analysis explained 41% variation in pest population, though the model was non-significant. The study concludes that Antigastra catalaunalis infestation in sesame is season-dependent and weather-influenced, underscoring the need for prompt monitoring based on weather conditions for effective pest management.