Relative susceptibility of okra varieties and hybrids to blister beetles (Mylabris spp.) in Himachal Pradesh

Ten varieties and hybrids of okra viz. Arka Anamika, Harbhajan, P-8, Panchaali, Parbhani Kranti, Pusa Makhmali, Shagun, Tulsi, Varsha Uphar and Pusa Sawani were evaluated for their relative susceptibility to blister beetle (Mylabris spp.) at two locations in Kangra valley of Himachal Pradesh during 2005 and 2006. Results revealed that during both the years, Varsha Uphar (3.80–3.93 and 4.20–4.80 beetles/10 plants) and Tulsi (4.07–4.60 and 4.93–5.87 beetles/10 plants) were least susceptible to the pest whereas, the most susceptible variety observed was Pusa Sawani (14.60–17.67 and 17.80–24.13 beetles/10 plants) at Palampur and Kachhiari, respectively. The varieties followed parallel trend for flower damage (%) by the pest.