NRCB advises banana growers on controlling mealybug attack

NRCB tackles mealybug infestation in banana crops in Karur and Tiruchi districts through integrated pest management strategies.

The ICAR- National Research Centre for Banana (NRCB) has initiated efforts to control mealybug infestation in banana crop in Karur and Tiruchi districts, its Director R. Selvarajan has said.

Farmers along the banks of the River Cauvery in these districts, where banana is a primary crop, have reported extensive damage caused by mealybugs, particularly in the Karpuravalli banana variety, Dr. Selvarajan said.

Mealybugs primarily attack banana stems, leaves, and fruits, reducing crop quality and yield. During the rainy season, these pests may be washed away by heavy rains, but their impact intensifies during dry periods. Early-stage infestations can be managed thoroughly spraying affected areas with water or soap water.

Upon learning of the pest attack, Entomology Scientists from NRCB, J. Poorani and A. Mohanasundaram and Extension Scientist C. Karpagam visited the fields in and around Kulithalai area of Karur district to identify the mealybug symptoms and collected samples. They advised the farmers to adopt integrated pest management methods.

They also launched an awareness programme to educate farmers through various media channels on the effective control strategies.

Integrated management practices are essential for controlling mealybugs in bananas. As ants contribute significantly to the spread of these pests, it is important to identify ant colonies and eliminate those using chlorpyrifos 20 EC (2.5 ml /litre). Planting intercrops such as pulses and coriander can improve soil health and increase the population of natural enemies that prey on mealybugs. When handling banana bunches, using a high-pressure water jet can help wash away mealybugs.

Additional measures include applying fish oil rosin soap (10 g/litre), cow urine, neem seed kernel extract (NSKE) (30 ml/litre), or neem oil (10 ml/litre) to reduce mealybug populations.