Insecticides Vs Tea mosquito bug Helopelis theivora infesting cocoa

In this book, the focus is on cocoa cultivation and the challenges posed by the tea mosquito bug (TMB) species complex in India, particularly Helopeltis theivora. The study explores the life cycle of H. theivora and the effects of various insecticides on its control. The research reveals that TMB infestation starts in September, and its life cycle on cocoa takes around 29 days. Notably, the first nymph stage experiences the highest natural mortality. The population tends to be predominantly female. H. theivora prefers feeding on developing pods over leaves and shoots.Seasonal patterns show TMB infestations peaking during the post-monsoon season. Weather conditions also influence infestations, with higher temperatures and wind speed correlating positively with TMB presence. Among the tested insecticides, bifenthrin proves most effective, while flonicamid is the least toxic. Both bifenthrin and clothianidin demonstrate lasting efficacy in reducing TMB infestations. The study also examines compatibility with biological control agents, identifying quinalphos as incompatible.This investigation provides valuable insights for developing an Integrated Pest Management strategy.