Status of Tuta absoluta Larva in Tomato Growing Sites of Kathmandu Valley
Date
2023
Authors
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Publisher
Department of Zoology
Abstract
This research was conducted to explore the status of Tuta absoluta larvae in
Kathmandu Valley, analyze its seasonal variation, explore the relation of larvae with
physical parameters (temperature and humidity). Three study sites Dahachowk (site 1),
Gundu (site 2) and Naikap (site 3) were selected. T. absoluta larvae were collected
from these study sites from April 2019 to January 2020 with monthly visit to each sites
using quadrat method (10×10 m²). There were varying levels of abundance of Tuta
absoluta among the three sites. In terms of abundance, Dahachowk area (site 1) showed
highest abundance of larvae (12.7± 4.9) whereas least abundance at Naikap site (site3)
(11.4± 6.5). During autumn, T. absoluta populations were the highest and least during
winter. Different sites have different interactions with temperature and humidity
regarding T. absoluta larvae populations. Humidity and temperature showed statistical
significance on dependent variable i.e., larval abundance on all the sites. To mitigate
the impact of T. absoluta on the Kathmandu Valley's agricultural community, tailored
integrated pest management practices must be implemented according to site-specific
environmental conditions. As a result of identifying the distribution and abundance of
this invasive pest, targeted control measures can be developed and crop losses can be
reduced.
Description
Keywords
Tuta absoluta larva, Tomato growing, Seasonal variation