Studies on population dynamics and varietal screening relevant to mango leaf cutting weevil (Deporaus marginatus Pascoe) were conducted in 2022 at Navsari Agricultural University, Gujarat, India. Mango mother plants and grafted plants were observed at a weekly interval. Infestation of D. marginatus on the young leaves of mango mother plants was recorded from the 21st to the 40th SMW. The population of D. marginatus in terms of ‘number of eggs laid per leaf’ on mango mother plants was recorded at its maximum (8.3 eggs/leaf) in the 32nd SMW. The population of D. marginatus in terms of ‘per cent leaf damage’ on mango mother plants was recorded at its maximum (18.39 %) in the 27th SMW. Infestation of D. marginatus on grafted plants of mango was recorded at its maximum (37.89 %) in the 33rd SMW. The population of D. marginatus was positively influenced by rainfall and relative humidity. The significantly highest infestation of D. marginatus was recorded in Amrapali (8.15 %) and Alphonso (7.12%). While the significantly least infestation was recorded in Langra (1.13%).

Mango leaf cutting weevil, Deporaus marginatus Pascoe, Population dynamics, Varietal screening

Based on results from studies, it can be concluded that the mango leaf cutting weevil (Deporaus marginatus Pascoe) is a pest of grafted and young plants of mango as it causes damage to the young leaves (new flushes). Infestation of D. marginatus can be observed during the rainy season due to the positive influence of rainfall and humidity. The D. marginatus prefers varieties viz., Amrapali and Alphonso over the least susceptible Langra.

Khimani V.M. and Chavan S.M. (2023). Population Dynamics of Mango Leaf Cutting Weevil (Deporaus marginatus Pascoe) in Relation to Abiotic Factors and Varietal Screening of Mango Mother Plants in Nursery. Biological Forum – An International Journal, 15(11): 526-532.