EFFECT OF VARIETIES, SEASONS AND WEATHER ON POPULATION BUILDUP OF LEAF HOPPER (Amrasca devastans Distant) ON POTATO CROP

Abstract

With a view to record the population of leaf hopper (Amrasca devastans Distant) on processing varieties of potato and its correlation with weather parameters, studies were carried out at Central Potato Research Institute Campus, Modipuram in early, main and spring crops. Comparison of mean leaf hopper population during three different crop seasons revealed that early crop planted during September favoured highest development of leaf hoppers followed by main (Oct-Feb) and spring crops (Dec-April). A distinct varietal difference was observed in appearance and buildup of leaf hoppers. Multiple regression equation based on temperature, relative humidity, wind velocity, sunshine duration and rainfall could explain leaf hopper population ranging from 50–96 %.