Abstract

Mass production of HpNPV, a potential bio pesticide against the teak defoliator Hyblaea puera (Cramer) was attempted. During the study period HpNPV amounting to a total of 2.2x1013POBs was produced which was sufficient for application in BOUT 4000 ha of teak plantation.

As an activity of the project, attempts were made to transfer teak defoliator management technology to the Forest Divisions of Nilambur north and south. Trainings on various aspects of defoliator management using HpNPV biopesticide were conducted for the benefit of the Forest Department field staff including foresters, forest guards and watchers. Defoliator monitoring techniques were included in the first phase of the training. In the second phase training was given on the HpNPV application methods. The trainings helped to create an awareness among the forest staff on the need for adopting control measure against the defoliator attack for increasing the productivity of teak plantations. This model can be practiced in state, national and transcontinental level. Under the research component of the project, the shelf life of the formulated HpNPV product was evaluated. The study showed decrease in activity of the biopesticide formulation with increase in the storage time. The activity ratio of 76 after 18 months storage was found decreased to 11 by 42 months As one of the achievement of the project, HpNPV technology could be introduced to a private teak grower in Chattisgarh. The effectiveness of HpNPV was well appreciated by the farmer by using the product in his plantation. A documentary on teak defoliator management was also produced for distribution among teak farmers.