Effect of Neem on Midges

Plant galls are abnormal growth or swellings of plant tissues caused by attack of a living organism. Insects, mites,nematodes,bacteria,fungi,and viruses produce these deformities. Galls grow in response to either feeding by the gall maker or as a result of egg laying on or within the plant tissues. Galls grow to surround the tiny insects and mites that form them providing some protection from adverse weather, predators and parasites. In addition the gall is a ready source of food for the gall makers rich in protein and carbohydrates.Midge become a serious pest of mango in all mango growing countries of the world. In present study the effect of gall formation on different biochemical aspects of the plant were studied. Anatomical alteration were also studied. Along with this attempt was made to minimize the infestation by using Azadirachtin extract spray (Neem leaf ) on gall infested mango leaves. Its effect on biochemical aspects of larvae as well as pupae were studied. I hope this experiment will guide and help the farmers to reduce this midge infestation with no pollution .