Rakhshan - Aphid Systematics & Bio-control Laboratory, University Department of Zoology, T. M. Bhagalpur University, Bhagalpur -۸۱۲۰۰۷, Bihar, India
Md Equbal Ahmad - Aphid Systematics & Bio-control Laboratory, University Department of Zoology, T. M. Bhagalpur University, Bhagalpur -۸۱۲۰۰۷, Bihar, India
Sanjeev Kumar - Aphid Systematics & Bio-control Laboratory, University Department of Zoology, T. M. Bhagalpur University, Bhagalpur -۸۱۲۰۰۷, Bihar, India

The knowledge of interaction of prey and predator in relation to host plants in particular season is very necessary for pest management. The seasonal study of Aphis craccivora Koch (Hemiptera: Aphididae) and its predator Cheilomenes sexmaculata (Fabricius) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) were carried out in two seasons on two most common pulses (Vigna mungo and Vigna radiata) under agroclimatic condition. The appearance and population buildup of A. craccivora and C. sexmaculata were observed host plants, temperature and humidity dependent. During both the years, one standard peak of infestation of A. craccivora was observed on V. radiata. However, one standard peak was observed on V. mungo only in the first year. The activity of aphids was recorded from October to January (4 months) on V. radiata and V. mungo. Generally, the first association of C. sexmaculata was observed after 6th weeks (16.9 ºC, 51% RH) on V. radiata and no association was recorded on V. mungo in first year but in the next year the first association was recorded after 8 weeks (16.9 ºC, 80%RH) on V. mungo from the date of appearance of aphid in the field. Aphids and predators interaction are greatly influenced by environmental conditions, such as temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, wind and sunshine hours. Thus, the seasonal study of aphids and their predator plays important role for effective management of pest and conservation of natural enemies.

Vigna radiata, Vigna mungo, Seasonal incidence, Aphis craccivora, Cheilomenes sexmaculata