Abstract

Teak (Tectona grandis L. f.), is largely determined by climate and soil type, it can be grown in almost every part of the country except the dry western zone. All the stages in the growth of Teak from seed to mature trees are damaged by insect pests. Among these, the most important leaf feeders is the Teak skeletonizer, Eutectona machaeralis Walker (Pyralidae: Lepidoptera) and it causes severe damage to foliage in the nursery and during the growth period of trees. Because of the awareness on the detrimental effects of synthetic insecticides to the operator and the environment, bio- based management is gaining momentum. Availability, quantity and quality of the bio- products are complex and difficult. So, the present study aims to minimize the quantity of bio-products needed there by identifying the actual site of the activity of the insect pest to be controlled on a tree. Results of the present investigation on feeding and egg laying preference of the larvae and moths of E. machaeralis clearly indicated that the tender leaves (1 – 3 days old) are the most preferred stage. Hence, management practices can be adopted towards the tender foliage instead of the whole tree to control the population of E. machaeralis. This will not only reduce the cost of plant protection but increase the cost benefit ratio.

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