Abstract

                                A new insecticide molecule, emamectin benzoate (Proclaim 5 SG) was tested for bio-efficacy against major pests and natural enemies of grapes during 2007 and 2008 seasons. Emamectin benzoate was applied as foliar spray at 8.0 g a.i./ha, 9.5 g a.i./ha, 11.0 g a.i./ha and 22.0 g a.i./ha. Results indicated that emamectin benzoate 5 SG was significantly effective at 11.0 and 22.0 g a.i./ha when sprayed twice at 15 days interval and minimized the incidence of thrips, Rhipiphorothrips cruentatus and fruit borers Helicoverpa armigera and Spodoptera litura on plants and fruits. Among all treatments, emamectin benzoate most effectively reduced pest population and increased fruit yield. The insecticide did not register any adverse effects on coccinellid predators. There were no phytotoxic symptoms observed on the plants due to emamectin benzoate treatment.

Key words : Emamectin benzoate, Bioefficacy, Scirtothrips dorsalis, Rhipiphorothrips cruentatus, Helicoverpa armigera, Spodoptera litura, Grape