Preliminary report on disease and insect pests of Tamarindus indica L. in dry-hot valley of Jinsha river.

[Objective]The objective of the present study was to explore the main diseases and insect pests of Tamarindus indica L., and to develop the technique for their prevention and control in dry-hot valley of Jinsha river in order to sustain the large-scale cultivation of Tamarindus indica L. [Method]The diseases and insect pests of Tamarindus indica L. were systematically investigated in dry-hot valley of Jinsha river during 2009-2010 using general methods and field investigations. The disease and pests were identified in laboratory and the data collected was analyzed statistically. [Result]Tamarindus indica L. was found to be affected by Sphaerotheca Fuliginea, sooty mould disease, root rot disease, etc. Six main species of the pests, viz., Hespera Weise, Icerya Purchasi Maskelll, cricket, Macrotermes annadalei, Anomala corpulenta and Lymantriid were found to affect the plants. [Conclusion]Some suggestions have been given to reinforce the management practices, improve pest resistance ability by combining agricultural, biological, physical and chemical controlling measures to ensure the healthy and sustainable development of Tamarindus indica L. industry.