Sitophilus species Crop: Stored grain, especially maize Why is it a problem? Grain weevils are the most important storage pests in Bhutan, particularly of maize. Where and when is it a problem? They can cause high losses below about 1,200 m asl, intermediate losses to 1,700 m asl and don’t …
Phytophthora capsici Crop: Chilli Why is it a problem? Chilli blight is the most serious problem in chilli cultivation in Bhutan. It causes sudden wilting and death of plants, both in the nursery and in transplanted fields, thereby reducing yields. In severe cases, entire crops can be lost. Chili blight …
Agrotis segetum Crop: Chilli, Cole crops, tomato, maize, radish Why is it a problem? Larvae of the common cutworm live in the soil and cut seedlings of various crops. It is most important in chili, causing poor plant stands that require replanting. Seedling losses in Cole crops are also occasionally …
Helicoverpa armigera Crop: chili, tomato, chickpeas, and maize Why is it a problem? Caterpillars can attack a wide range of crops. In Bhutan, they cause the greatest damage to chili and tomato. Chilli damage is internal, mostly to the seed, so the main effects are aesthetic and the loss of …
Myzus persicae Crop: Generalist, but is only a pest of potato Why is it a problem? Aphids are sap-sucking insects that at high densities can cause leaf curl and stunting, resulting in poor potato production. However, globally green peach aphid is known as one of the most important virus vectors, …
Phyllophyga sp. Crop: Potato Why is it a problem? Feeding by the white grub larvae results in large circular holes in potato tubers, reducing their market value. Where and when is it a problem? Although present in all potato-growing areas, it normally does not cause sufficient damage to be economically …
Dorylus orientalis Crop: Generalist, but can seriously damage vegetable crops including potato and Cole crops Why is it a problem? Red ants live in the soil and can feed on the roots and tubers of a wide variety of plants. They make holes on the surface of potato tubers, (chewing …
Phthorimaea operculella Crop: Potato Why is it a problem? PTM is the most common insect pest of potato in Bhutan, destroying the crop both in the field and during storage. Foliar and tuber damage can result in substantial yield losses. As a storage pest, it can destroy high proportions of …
