Biology of potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller) on three solanaceous host plants

Abstract

Potato tuber moth, Phthorimaea operculella (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae), is an oligophagous pest that causes significant economic losses in potato production. Biology of P. operculella was studied on three hosts viz., potato, eggplant and tomato under laboratory conditions. Potato was more preferred followed by eggplant and tomato for its growth and development. Fecundity of P. operculella on its different host ranged from 70.40 eggs (Potato) to 33.40 eggs (Tomato). The larval (9.80 days) and pupal (4.20 days) period was shorter on potato. Larval mortality was highest in tomato (7.65). Longevity of the P. operculella male and female adults varied significantly on its different hosts. Male and female of P. operculella lived longer for 11.40 and 13.40 days on potato, respectively. Irrespective of host crops, female lived longer than male moth. Total life cycle of P. operculella was significantly influenced by its different hosts which was shortest on potato (26.60 days) followed by eggplant (30.40 days) and tomato (34.00 days).