Codling moth, one of the most notorious insect pests of apples, has been reported in several parts of Kashmir. Officials have stated the disease has affected apple orchards in several parts of Kashmir including Baramulla, Bandipora, Pulwama, Anantnag, Shopian and Budgam.
The pest has been affecting the apple orchards for some three years but it was not identified and now the farmers are worried. Altaf Ahmad, a farmer of Baramulla said the pest has direct as well as indirect effects on the fruit.
Codling moth (Cydia pomonella L) is one of the most notorious insect pests of apples, distributed widely in all apple growing areas. It causes tremendous loss in yield due to direct fruit damage. If left unchecked, the extent of infestation may be up to 80% in apples.
Source: risingkashmir.com