Effect of a neem seed kernel suspension onTelenomus remus,an egg parasite ofSpodoptera litura

Laboratory tests showed that a 2% neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) seed kernel suspension (NSKS) in water sprayed onSpodoptera litura (F.) eggs before or after parasitization did not adversely affect the emergence of the egg parasiteTelenomus remus Nixon. When sprayed on eggs before parasitization, the treatment did not repel the parasite. The treatment accelerated the development of the parasite but significantly reduced the longevity of its adult. When parasitized eggs were treated, NSKS significantly increased the adult parasite longevity. Thus, a schedule of NSKS sprays can be integrated withT. remus for the control of the tobacco caterpillar,S. litura, in tobacco nurseries.