Correlation of meteorological parameters with the incidence and activity of shoot and trunk borer in shisham stands

Abstract

A study was conducted during 2000-01 to determine the seasonal population fluctuation of shoot borer (Cladoblastic melitrichus) and trunk borer (Strombium barbatum) of Dalbergia sissoo in relation to the meteorological parameters of Bihar, India. The seasonal incidence, outbreak and population of twig borers were recorded by random selection of 50 shisham mature saplings and young trees in the agroforestry farm in Bihar. The maximum temperature had no influence on the incidence and activity of the pest. Minimum temperature showed significant positive correlation with infestation of apical, middle lower and trunk borer. Relative humidity at 07.00 h and at 14.00 h showed significant influence on pest build up. Rainfall showed a significant positive relationship with only apical and lower shoot borer infestation. Middle and trunk borer showed non-significant effect with rainfall. The results indicated that the role of minimum temperature and relative humidity at 14.00 h were more important in the build up of borer population than other meteorological parameters studied.