Chemicals

The apple Woolly aphid was controlled through classical biological control based IPM in 1986 by introduction of a natural enemy Aphilinus mali from Switzerland into Murree Hills. Because of extensive spraying against codling moth Cydia pomonella during 1978-80 in Murree hills and during 1988-90 against San Jose scale Quadraspidiotus perniciosus in Swat valley woolly aphid Eriosoma lanigerum became a serious pest on apple. In 1986 a parasitoid Aphelinus mali was imported from Switzerland and about 10,000 adults were released in two heavily infested orchards in Murree. Two weeks later it was recorded parasitising up to 8% aphids in the orchards where releases were made. By the end of October its parasitism rose up to 78% and completely controlled the aphid. It was also found parasitising aphids about km away. Mortality in overwintering aphids occurred till February and was 78% on branches and 61% on stones and barks. It remained under good control where farmers did not use insecticides. However, its infestation has again increased where insecticide sprays have started because of the active marketing strategies of multinational pesticide companies. NRSP is working with communities throughout Pakistan. It needs skills and experience for promotion of sustainable agriculture with particular reference to IPM. In Pakistan IPM could be implemented at a very small scale. It is need of the hour that it may be implemented at wider scale. This is only possible when training modules, information packages and quality extension messages are produced. This can be done very effectively through NRSP by developing their capacity in the field of IPM implementation. The primary objective of the project is preparation of training modules and information package for staff of NRSP to enhance their skills and capacity. They will ultimately be able to utilize this resource for replication of similar activities in different agro-ecological zones of Pakistan.

Pakistan