Fruits > Litchi > Pests

Eriophyid Mite (Aceria litchi) :

Both nymphs and adults infest leaves. The adult mites are small white coloured insects which live on the under surface of the leaves. The mites puncture and lacerate the tissues of the leaf and suck the cell sap. They attack the young leaves causing hairy, blister-like galls on the upperside of the leaves. The leaves become thickened, wrinkled and distorted. The leaves may ultimately fall off. The mites also attack and cause malformation of inflorescence. The attack is much severe on 'Bombai', 'China' and 'Kasba' varieties.
Control : Pruning and destroying the infested plant parts helps to check the mite population. Sprays of insecticides like Kelthane (0.12%) or Dimethoate (1ml/litre) is recommended for effective control of mites.

Bark eating caterpillar (Indarbela quadrinotata; Indarbela tetraonis) :

The caterpillars feed on the bark of the tree during night. They bore inside the trunk or main stems and eat through the bark into the wood. The affected portion is covered with large silken webs. In case of severe infestation, sap movement is affected due to which the tree fails to flower.

Control : A small metal wire is inserted into the hole to kill the caterpillar. The holes are then plugged with cotton wool soaked in chloroform, formalin or petrol and sealed with mud.