Measures to Control Shoot and Fruit Borer in Brinjal

Brinjal, one of the most important Horticultural crops, globally faces threat from Pests and Diseases. This blog explains the main threat in the brinjal crop called “Shoot and Fruit Borer”, leading to significant yield losses if left unchecked. In this article, we'll explore effective measures to control and manage Shoot and Fruit Borer.

What are Fruit and Shoot Borer?

The term "fruit and shoot borer" can refer to several different moth species that infest fruits and shoots of various plants. However, the most common fruit and shoot borer is the eggplant fruit and shoot borer (Leucinodes orbonalis), also known as the brinjal fruit and shoot borer. This moth is a major pest of eggplants (brinjal) in tropical and subtropical regions of Asia, Africa, and Australia. It can also attack other solanaceous crops such as potatoes, tomatoes, and peppers.

Short Description of Fruit and Shoot Borer

Here is the detail information related to the Fruit and Shoot borer:

Identification Fruit and Shoot Borer

The main characteristics of Fruit and Shoot Borer pest to identify is:

• Adults: Medium-sized moths with forewings that have black and brown patches and dots on a white background. Hindwings are opaque with black dots.
• Eggs: Creamy white, laid singly on the underside of leaves or on stems.
• Larvae: Pink caterpillars with dark heads.
• Pupae: Greyish, boat-shaped cocoons found in the soil or on the plant.

Favorable factors of Fruit and Shoot Borer in Brinjal Crop

Warmer temperatures, typically between 25-30°C, favor the development and activity of the borer. High relative humidity, above 70%, provides a favorable environment for egg laying and larval survival.

Symptoms of Brinjal crop affected by Fruit and Shoot Borer

Main symptoms of plant affected by Fruit and Shoot borer pests are:

• Larvae bore into shoots, causing them to wilt and die.
• They also bore into fruits, making them unmarketable and unfit for consumption.
• Feeding damage can also attract other pests and diseases.

Bio and Organic products for control of Fruit and Shoot Borer in Brinjal crop 

Here are the best recommendations of bio and organic products.

 Chemical control methods for Fruit and Shoot Borer pest in Brinjal crop 

Here are the best recommendations of Chemical control measures.

Brinjal Fruit and Shoot Borer Related FAQs :

Q. What is the fruit and shoot borer, and why is it a threat to brinjal crop?

A. The Fruit and Shoot Borer is a moth species that infests brinjal plants, laying eggs on shoots and fruits. The larvae bore into these parts, causing significant damage, wilting of shoots, and rendering fruits unmarketable.

Q. How can I identify Fruit and Shoot Borer infestation in my brinjal crop?

A. Signs such as wilting shoots, damaged fruits with entry holes, and the presence of pink larvae inside affected plant parts. Moths with distinctive black and brown patches on their wings may also be observed.

Q. What product is recommended for Borer pests?

A. EMA 5 is one of the recommended products for Borer pests.\

Q. When is the best time to apply control measures for Fruit and Shoot Borer in brinjal crops?

A. Start monitoring early in the growing season and apply control measures promptly when initial signs of infestation are observed, ideally during the vegetative and early reproductive stages of the crop.

Q. What are the recommended bio and organic products to control Fruit and Shoot Borer in brinjal crops?

A. Effective bio and organic products include BT Bio Larvicide, Triple Attack, and Beauveria bassiana. These products offer sustainable control without harmful effects on the environment.