Attractive effect of volatile extracts of tea stems, Camellia sinensis L.O.Kuntze on Glyptotermes dilatatus Bugnion and Popoff

Abstract

Low country live wood termite (LCLWT), Glyptotermes dilatatus Bugnion and Popoff is one of the major insect pests of low grown tea. They first colonize in rotted stumps which are formed due to the invasion of wood rot fungi through pruned stems of tea plant, Camellia sinensis L.O.Kuntze and continue their feeding to healthy wood. LCLWT damage is significant owing to its economic crop loss and spread in almost all low grown tea areas. However, concealed habit of the pest limits pest management methods leaving no efficient methods to control this pest at present.