Exploitation of Biocontrol Agents, Trichogramma chilonis and Tetrastichus howardi on Yield Improvement in Sugarcane at EID Parry (India) Ltd., Sugar Mill Command Areas

Abstract

Insect pests are one of the major causes for reduction in sugarcane yield.  In particular, borer's damage in sugarcane crop is a subject of concern in Tamil Nadu. Though the general pest control measures recommended is the use of chemical pesticides, this is difficult in sugarcane due to environmental hazard, canopy structure and resistance. The concept of biological control is the only effective and eco friendly approach for internode borer management in sugarcane cultivation.  E.I.D Parry (India) Ltd., is committed to safe environment and sustainable agriculture. Since 1997, Parry Mills to manage a major pest of sugarcane internode borer, Chilo Sacchariphagus indicus (INB) by releasing biocontrol agent, Trichogramma chilonis (egg parasitoid), later, 2007 onwards added another biocontrol agent such as, Tetrastichus howardi (pupal parasitoid). However, these two biocontrol agents are also taking care of cane damages from other borer pests of Sugarcane early shoot borer, Chilo infuscatellus, and sugarcane top shoot borer, Scirpophaga excerptalis.