Srinagar: Anthocorid bugs, Blaptostethuspallescens, an efficient predator on the European redmite were released in large numbers by Prof. Nazir Ahmad Ganie, Vice chancellor of SKUAST-K.
This is first time in J&K that anthocorid bugs were released on high density cherry plantations. These cherry plantations are surrounded by apple plantations at SKUAST-K orchards. Dean Faculty of Horticulture, Prof & Head, Division of Entomology, Head, KVK, Srinagar and Principal Investigator of AICRP on Biological Control also take part in releasing the anthocorid bugs.
These anthocorid bugs are being mass produced in AICRP-BC Laboratories, Division of Entomology, SKUAST-K. The AICRP on Biological control Centre will educate and skilling the young minds, entrepreneurs and commercial growers and other interested persons to transfer this technology for reducing the insecticide consumption in JK.
In addition, Dr. Barkat Hussain, Principal investigator of AICRP-BC will provide anthocorid bug culture and egg parasitoids for establishing the Biocontrol Laboratories in every District of J&K and technical know-how for respective departments (Department of Horticulture & Department of Agriculture) for establishing the biocontrol units.
This will help us in reducing the pesticides in J&K and a way for organic cultivation of fruits, vegetables and other crop plants. In addition, AICRP-BC will be able to provide the egg parasitoids on fruit borers and other insect pests on payment basis. Besides, training to the people who are interested to establish their own biological control unit for serving the farming and fruit growing community for reducing the insecticide usage.

KR Desk