Bionomics of the Ambara Defoliator<I> Podontia 14-punctata</I> Linn. (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae)

Abstract

Podontia 14-punctata the balticine beetle is a serious defoliator of Spondias pinnata, an important fodder tree. In June/July the beetles appear and the trees are stripped of their leaves resulting in the loss of much needed fodder. Eggs were laid in clusters of 20-60. Incubation period was 7-8 days, larval period 11-18 days, pupa] period 14-29 days. Life cycle varied from 32-55 days. A nematode pal asite Mermis sp and a fungal patbogen Cephalosporium sp. have been recorded parasiting the larvae and the beetle. Foliar spray of 0.25% malathion in June/July gave effective control of the pest. As an alternative to insecticides, spores of the pathogen can be sprayed with water as carrier for controlling the pest.