Vol. 7, Issue 2, Part D (2025)

The present study investigates the population dynamics of the Nephotettix virescens in paddy fields and its correlation with various weather parameters during the Kharif seasons of 2022 and 2023 across different villages. The green leafhopper population was 1^st observed in the 34^th to 35^th Standard Meteorological Week (SMW) and persisted until the 47^th SMW. The population fluctuated throughout the season, reaching its peak in the 2^nd and 3^rd weeks of October. During the Kharif 2022 season in Palpur, the GLH population ranged from 3.16 (0.79%) to 47.24 (11.81%) hoppers per hill, peaking in the 41^st SMW. Corresponding weather parameters, including temperature, relative humidity, rainfall, wind velocity, and sunshine hours, were recorded. Correlation analysis indicated a significant positive relationship between the GLH population and morning relative humidity (r = 0.418), evening relative humidity (r = 0.634), and mean relative humidity (r = 0.577). Conversely, a negative correlation was observed with maximum temperature, minimum temperature, mean temperature, and wind velocity. In 2023, the population dynamics followed a similar pattern, with peak infestation recorded in the 42^nd SMW. The population ranged from 0.48 (0.12%) to 37.71 (9.43%) hoppers/hill. Positive correlations were noted with maximum temperature (r = 0.001) and sunshine hours (r = 0.332), while negative correlations were found with remaining weather parameter. Pooled data from both years revealed a peak population of 39.45 (9.89%) hoppers/hill during the 41^st SMW. Correlation analysis highlighted a significant positive association with sunshine hours (r = 0.921) and maximum temperature (r = 0.444), while negative correlations were noted with mean temperature and relative humidity. The population declined sharply in early November, likely due to the cessation of new leaf emergence in paddy fields. These findings emphasize highlight the crucial role of weather parameters in shaping pest populations and provide valuable insights for developing integrated pest management strategies.