Observations on blackheaded fireworm Rhopobota naevana (Hübner, 1817) (Lepidoptera: Tortricidae) from apple orchards of Kashmir Himalayas

Abstract

Blackheaded fireworm Rhopobota naevana (Hübner, 1817) was observed for its infestation levels in apple orchards of the Kashmir Valley, India. The moth is emerging as one of the serious pests of young apple seedlings with high levels of cumulative incidence (75%) and severity rates (28%). Seasonal occurrence, some elements of biology and morphological detailing of the pest is provided herewith. The damage caused on apple seedling treated for feather induction has also become has also become a matter of great concern. Young apple seedlings treated with different concentration of 6-benzyladenine for development of maximum feathers at desirable heights with appropriate length and crotch angle. It was found that the larvae completely nullify such advantages with high levels of infestations. They completely destroy apical bud of main shoot and thus affect main shoot growth and ultimately feather induction.