Tristrasa pest invades orange cultivations

By Prasanna Padmasiri -

(February 12, 2009) A pest identified as Tristrasa is destroying orange cultivations in Bibile much to the anxiety of the residents of the area who depend on this main traditional crop that had been their main source of income for centuries. They said several other pests caused by viruses and fungus affected the orange cultivation after the heavy rains recently experienced in the area. Statistically more than 3000 acres of orange cultivation in the Moneragala district had been affected by pests. The farmers are alarmed that the orange cultivation in the district would be wiped out if the pest was not brought under control immediately. The cultivators who reap a bumper harvest in April and May every year are perturbed that the poor yield this year would result in heavy losses. Meanwhile, Manager of the District Agrarian Training Centre, Jinasena Harischandra said the orange cultivation in Bibile and several other areas in the Moneragala district were affected by fungus and pests after the monsoonal rains.

‘Bibile Sweet’, is the most popular variety unique to the area. However, it is a matter of concern that black spots caused by a fungus affected the fruits on the verge of harvest. Thousands of rotten oranges are found under the trees. The trees should be exposed to the sun to prevent the spread of the pest. Trees in shady gardens are more susceptible to the pest. The affected trees should be pruned and the rotten fruits destroyed. Pesticides should be applied when the trees are flowering to minimize the affect of the fungus,” an official said.

Posted in Bibile , orange cultivation of Sri Lanka