Author(s): Thalari Hanumanthu and Usha Yadav

Abstract: The fruit borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), is a highly destructive pest affecting tomatoes, presenting significant challenges for control due to its complex feeding behaviors. This study evaluates the effectiveness of biopesticides and chemical treatments in managing this pest. Eight different treatments were compared, with the lowest fruit borer infestation observed in the combination of Emamectin benzoate 5% SG and Indoxacarb 14.5% SC (11.36%) versus the untreated control (26.68%). Other effective treatments included Indoxacarb 14.5% SC alone (13.24%), Novaluron 10 EC combined with Indoxacarb 14.5% SC (13.56%), Beauveria bassiana combined with Indoxacarb 14.5% SC (13.70%), and Bacillus thuringiensis combined with Indoxacarb 14.5% SC (14.57%). Additionally, Novaluron 10 EC alone (15.03%) and Fipronil 5% SC (15.47%) were effective. The highest yield was achieved with Emamectin benzoate + Indoxacarb (207.39 q/ha), which also proved to be the most cost- effective treatment with a cost-benefit ratio of 1:10.90. The untreated control had the lowest cost-benefit ratio at 1:4.84.

DOI: 10.33545/26174693.2024.v8.i6d.1328