COMPARATIVE EFFICACY OF BOTANICALS AND INSECTICIDES ON TERMITES IN SUGARCANE

Abstract

Termites are a major pest that cause damage to many crops, including sugarcane. The use of chemical insecticides to control termites has resulted in environmental and health hazards. Therefore, there is a need to investigate alternative methods of termite control. This study aimed to compare the efficacy of botanicals and insecticides on termites in sugarcane. The botanicals included neem, garlic, and turmeric, while the insecticides included chlorpyrifos and fipronil were used. The efficacy of botanicals as first application on setts in furrow against termites in sugarcane was compared with insecticides and control. The botanicals were used in 1:20 in water. The study was conducted in a randomized block design, and the data were analyzed using Statistix 8.1. The results showed that neem, garlic, and turmeric were effective in controlling termites in sugarcane. Neem had the highest efficacy, followed by garlic and turmeric. Chlorpyrifos and fipronil were also effective in controlling termites, but they had a negative impact on the environment. Therefore, it is recommended to use neem, garlic, and turmeric as an alternative method of termite control in integrated pest management of sugarcane.