Abstract

: Field trial was conducted in Turmeric (Curcuma longa L.) in the Department of Spices and Plantation crops, Horticultural College and Research Institute, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University in a randomized block design with twenty six genotypes in two replications during the year 2000-2003. Observations were recorded on yield, stem borer (Conogethes punctiferalis Guen) incidence and various biochemical traits such as total phenols, poly phenol oxidase (PPO), peroxidase and catalase. The results revealed that the genotypes with higher tolerance limit showed higher peroxidase, PPO, catalase and phenol content. The genotype CL 101 exhibited lower incidence (10 per cent) coupled with higher yield, total phenols, PPO and catalase activity. The genotypes such as CL2, CL22, CL47, CL101 and CL153 exerted resistance to this pest and hence, these genotypes are suitable for growing under the conditions where the pest incidence is predominant.

Keywords: Conogethes punctiferalis Guen., total phenols, catalase, polyphenol oxidase, tannins and biochemical resistance.