Comparative biology of sesame pod bug, Elasmolomus sordidus Fabricius on Sesamum indicum and Cleome viscosa

摘要

The studies on biology of Elasmolomus sordidus both on Sesamum indicum and an alternate weed host Cleome viscosa were carried out at Agricultural Research Station, Virinjipuram. The biology of insects on two host showed significant difference in the development. While the incubation period, nymphal period and nymphal mortality were lesser, the hatchability and the nymphal survivability were greater on S. indicum than on C. viscosa. The oviposition period and fecundity of female bugs were higher on S. indicum. On both the hosts the males outlived the females. However the adult longevity of both male and female was significantly higher on sesame indicating that sesame was the most preferred host..