Dr. T.N. Raviprasad
Principal Scientist [Agricultural Entomology]
Leading research in agricultural entomology with a focus on sustainable management of major insect pests of cashew, including Tea Mosquito Bug and Cashew Stem and Root Borers, through eco-friendly pest management, biological control, pheromone technology and integrated pest management strategies.
Qualification
Ph.D. (Agricultural Entomology)
Year of Birth
1965
Present Position
Principal Scientist
Discipline
Agricultural Entomology
Mobile
30+
Years of Research62
Research Papers14
Book Chapters & Media Talks3
Major AwardsAbout the Scientist
Brief Work Experience
Professional Summary
Developed management schedule for Cashew Stem and Root Borers (CSRB) and Tea Mosquito Bug (TMB). Standardized laboratory rearing techniques for CSRB on the host bark and semi-synthetic diet [SSD]. Evaluated and recommended alternate insecticides for the management of TMB and CSRB, which are effective and eco-friendly. Confirmed the infectivity of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN) to CSRB grubs and standardized the dosage for field application. Confirmed the presence of female sex pheromone in TMB and evaluated the WBE for its stability in eliciting response from TMB males in field situations; as well as standardized the protocol for collection of released sex pheromone volatiles. Established collaboration with ICAR-NBAIR and CSIR-IICT for biochemical profiling of pheromone concentrates.
Projects & Scientific Contributions
Current Projects
Institute Research Projects
- Characterization and synthesis of female sex pheromone of Tea Mosquito Bug (Helopeltis antonii) and its bioassay (October 2020 – September 2025).
- Assessing the field effectiveness of entomopathogenic nematodes (EPN) and indigenous strain of entomopathogenic fungus (EPF) in management of cashew stem and root borers (Plocaederus ferrugineus and Plocaederus obesus) (September 2021 – August 2026).
Publication Summary
Representative Research Papers
Analysis of stability for nut yield and ancillary traits in cashew (Anacardium occidentale L.).
E. Eradasappa, G. S. Mohana, M. Poduval, K. Sethi, M. S. Aneesa Rani, I. K. Lourdusamy, S. Velmurugan, M. Manjusha, T. N. Raviprasad & C. Anilkumar (2024).
First Report of Neopestalotiopsis clavispora Causing Cashew Leaf Blight Disease in India.
H. Rajashekara, R. T. P. Pandian, S. Mahadevakumar, T. N. Raviprasad, K. Vanitha, S. Siddanna, S. H. Thube, Vikas Khandelwal & S. Chandranayaka (2023).
Pests and Their Management in Cashew.
Raviprasad, T. N. & K. Vanitha (2022).
Flower pests of cashew, their seasonal incidence, damage and natural enemies.
K. Vanitha & T. N. Raviprasad (2022).
Relative susceptibility of cashew stem and root borers (Plocaederus spp.) and Batocera rufomaculata to entomopathogenic nematodes.
Vasanthi, P. & T. N. Raviprasad (2012).
Awards, Achievements & Professional Recognition
Gold Medal – M.Sc. (Agricultural Entomology)
Awarded Gold Medal for securing the highest CGPA (4.0/4.0) in M.Sc. (Agricultural Entomology).
Gold Medal – Ph.D. (Agricultural Entomology)
Awarded Gold Medal for securing the highest CGPA (4.0/4.0) in Ph.D. (Agricultural Entomology).
ISPC Award
Received the ISPC Award for the original research paper presented at PLACROSYM XVIII held at NRCC, Puttur, Karnataka, during December 10–13, 2008.
Laboratory Members
Laboratory & Field Research Gallery
A visual overview of laboratory experiments, insect rearing and bioassay studies, pheromone research, biological control investigations, field surveillance, pest monitoring, and integrated pest management activities in cashew.
Contact Information
For scientific collaboration, research partnerships, pest management advisory, postgraduate guidance, and technical consultation on agricultural entomology, integrated pest management, tea mosquito bug, and cashew stem & root borer management.
Office
ICAR – Directorate of Cashew Research
Puttur, Dakshina Kannada,
Karnataka – 574202, India