Host suitability and differential performance parameters of cotton mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis for resistance in fibre crop, kenaf genotypes

Aim: To enumerate resistance in Kenaf (fibre crop) genotypes with distinct host suitability, biological performance and growth parameters of mealybug, Phenacoccus solenopsis Tinsley. Methodology: Laboratory and glasshouse experiments were conducted to assess the host suitability and resistance of genotypes on the basis of relative colonization, growth and survival in terms of establishment rate and nymphal duration of mealybug. Results: The wild accession, WHIJ 50 belonging to Hibiscus spp. and the variety JRM 3 of H. cannabinus recorded significantly lowest female establishment rate, instantaneous population increase, nymphal survival and growth index with longer nymphal duration possessing possible antixenosis-and antibiosis-mediated resistance. On the other extreme the susceptible genotype, WHIN 47 (H. acetocella) proved favourable for crawler developmental parameters. Interpretation: The level, mechanism and basis of resistance in kenaf enumerated from this study may pave the way for creating vigorous kenaf hybrids resistant to cotton mealybug.

Automated summary

This study assessed the resistance of kenaf genotypes to cotton mealybug and found that certain wild accessions and specific hybrid varieties exhibited higher resistance. These findings may contribute to the development of vigorous kenaf hybrids resistant to cotton mealybug in the future.