Population dynamics of leaf gall midge, Asphondylia phyllanthi on aonla

Abstract

Leaf gall midge is a major pest that can significantly affect aonla production by causing leaf galls, reducing photosynthesis, and leading to overall plant stress. Population dynamics studies were carried out on gall midge (Asphondylia phyllanthi Felt) insect, which has been found causing galls on the leaves and shoots of Phyllanthus emblica. Initiation of Aonla leaf gall midge, damage was started in the month of February and it was reached at its maximum level in the month of September from 2010 to 2016. Insect population with meteorological observations showed that insect population positively correlated with the minimum and maximum temperature and negatively correlated with the relative humidity and rainfall during the study periods. It was found that 2-3 overlapping generations developed in March-May. The infestation damaged the axillary buds, inhibiting growth and normal branching.