Tolerance in Brassica juncea Cultivars Vis-a-Vis Population Buildup of Mustard Aphid Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.)

Abstract

Current investigation deciphered the differential level of tolerance in diverse Brassica juncea cultivars, and variations in the preference and population buildup of Mustard aphid, Lipaphis erysimi. Cultivars RLC 3, NRCHB 101 and Pusa Mustard 27 were least preferred by L. erysimi. Further, total number of aphids and aphid resistance index under natural infestation condition were significantly lower on RLC 3, NRCHB 101, RH 725 and Pusa Mustard 27. However, under artificial conditions, total number of aphids, aphid resistance index and multiplication rates were significantly lower on DRMR 150-35, RH 0406, NRCHB 101, Pusa Mustard 27 and RLC 3. The cultivars DRMR 150-35, RH 0406, NRCHB 101, RLC 3, RH 725 and Pusa Mustard 27 were found with least preference, lower aphid resistance index, establishment, population buildup of L. erysimi under natural and/or artificial infestation conditions, thus can be used in Brassica improvement program.