Influence of Weather Parameters on the Population of Sucking Pests in Castor Genotypes

Field experiment were carried out to study the seasonal incidence of leafhopper, Empoasca flavescens and thrips, Scirtothrips dorsalis and also the influence of weather parameters on the sucking pest population in five castor genotypes i.e., DCH-519, DCH-177, ICH-66, NBCH, PCH-111 during Rabi, 2020-21 at the research farm of RARS, Palem, PJTSAU, Telanagana. The pest population was recorded from 10 random plants and the incidence was observed from 48th standard meterological week and the peak population of sucking pests was observed during 6th to 8th standard week. PCH-111 and NBCH were observed to be more susceptible to sucking pests whereas DCH-519 was least susceptible. The observed pest population is correlated with weather parameters by taking the weather data from the agro meteorological observatory located at RARS, Palem. Correlation studies indicated that all the parameters except max temperature had a negative influence on thrips whereas temperature showed positive influence towards hoppers.