Controlling of Fruit Borer in Chilli plant

Several types of borers can infest chili plants, including the chilli fruit borer (Helicoverpa armigera), stem borer (Amrasca biguttula), and legume pod borer (Maruca testulalis). They lay eggs on various parts of the plant, like leaves, flowers, or fruits. Upon hatching, the larvae bore into the fruit, stems, or flowers depending on the species. Inside the fruit, the larvae feed on the pulp, seeds, and developing chambers, creating tunnels and causing extensive damage. They leave behind excrement and frass, further contaminating the fruit and reducing its quality. When mature, they pupate inside the fruit or stem, further hindering growth and development. Upon emergence, adult moths or butterflies continue the cycle by laying eggs on new plants. Fruit borers can cause significant yield losses, ranging from 20-80% depending on the severity of infestation. They can reduce the quality of remaining fruits, making them unsuitable for sale. Repeated infestations can weaken the plant, making it vulnerable to other pests and diseases. 

Identification:

• Larvae: Look for plump, caterpillar-like creatures inside fruits, stems, or flowers. Note their color, size, and any markings or patterns.

• Adults: Observe adult moths or butterflies around your chili plants. Some may have characteristic wing patterns or colors.

• Entry Holes: Size and location of entry holes can provide clues. For example, stem borers typically create smaller holes compared to fruit borers.
• Feeding Damage: Observe the type of damage on fruits, stems, or flowers. Tunnel patterns and frass (excrement) can offer hints.

Classification:

• Type: Pest
• Common Name: Gram caterpillar
• Scientific name: Helicoverpa armigera 
• Major parts affected in plants: Fruit, stem, flower, leaf
• Major affected states: Maharashtra,Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka                      

Favorable factors for fruit borer in chilli:

• Hot and dry weather: Many fruit borer species prefer warm, dry conditions with low humidity. These conditions are often found in tropical and subtropical regions, making chilli crops grown in such areas especially vulnerable.
• Poor ventilation: Densely planted crops or greenhouses with limited airflow create stagnant air, which fruit borers prefer. This lack of air circulation also reduces the effectiveness of natural enemies like predatory wasps.
• Limited rainfall: Dry conditions stress the chilli plants, making them more susceptible to damage from borers. Additionally, infrequent rain reduces natural predators like predatory mites and lacewings.
• Dusty conditions: Dust particles can provide shelter for borers and protect them from natural enemies.

Symptoms:

• Look for small holes on the surface of the chili fruits. These can be round, oval, or irregular depending on the borer species.
• Infested fruits often wilt and develop discolored patches around the entry holes.
• Heavily damaged fruits may prematurely drop from the plant.
• In severe cases, fruit growth can be stunted and the fruits may become deformed due to internal feeding.
• If you cut open an infested fruit, you may find the borer larvae or pupae inside.

Control measures for fruit borer in chilli: