Fluctuación de la población de psílido (bactericera cockerelli sulc.) en papa (Solanum tuberosum l.) en tres localidades del cantón Penipe en el año 2024

Abstract

This study evaluated the population fluctuation of the potato psyllid Bactericera cockerelli Sulc in (Solanum tuberosum L.) crops in the localities of Releche, La Candelaria Centro La Ladera, and La Candelaria Baja La Tranca, all of which belong to the Penipe canton in Chimborazo province. To achieve this, yellow phototropic traps were used to capture adult psyllids, while manual foliage sampling was conducted to identify and quantify eggs and nymphs. Additionally, the presence of natural enemies, such as parasitoids, was recorded using an entomological net. A Completely Randomized Block Design (CRBD) was used, where the three treatments corresponded to the localities with different altitudinal gradients and climatic conditions. Moreover, four traps were placed to serve as replications within the experimental design. This research aims to provide information on the population fluctuation of Bactericera cockerelli at different altitudinal points. The study concluded that the psyllid was absent in localities exceeding 3,000 meters above sea level (m.a.s.l.). Based on these findings, it is recommended to avoid using potato seeds from low-altitude regions in high-altitude areas. Furthermore, parasitoids were found in all three locations; however, none were identified as natural enemies of the potato psyllid. Pest monitoring is essential for timely decision-making, as Bactericera cockerelli is the primary vector of the phytoplasma causing "Zebra Chip" disease in potatoes. This disease is a major constraint for potato producers since it is irreversible once plants are infected and can lead to total crop loss.