Inhibitory effect of buprofezin on the larval growth and development of Spodoptera litura (F.)

Effectiveness of buprofezin (Award 40 SC) was evaluated against 2^nd instar larvae of Spodoptera litura (F.) under laboratory conditions to analyse the growth and development at three concentrations viz., 200, 400, and 600 ppm with three application methods (direct or topical, indirect or leaf-dip and combined). Observations were made at 3 and 7 days after treatment and compared with untreated control. The results revealed that buprofezin significantly inhibited the larval weight, length and width, and the effect was dose, time and method dependent. Maximum (29.41%) weight reduction was observed with 600 ppm in combined application method, and it was followed by leaf-dip (16.10%) and topical application methods (13.80%). Similarly, 20.89% length and 19.58% width were inhibited when larvae were treated with 600 ppm through combined application method. The next best result was found from 400 ppm and leaf-dip application method. The dose at 200 ppm and topical application methods were found to be the least effective.