Bhagalpur: A new pest has been found in litchi orchards in Bhagalpur, raising concern among farmers and agricultural scientists in Bihar. Bihar Agricultural University said the litchi stink bug, known scientifically as Tessarotoma javanica, was detected during a recent survey. The insect is considered harmful because it attacks young branches, flowers and fruits, reducing crop quality and yield. Bihar is one of India’s major litchi-producing states, and experts say close monitoring is necessary to prevent the pest from spreading.
Scientists said the bug damages trees by sucking sap from tender twigs and flower clusters. This causes the branches to dry, flowers to burn and fruits to drop before ripening. In some cases, black spots also appear on the fruit, making it less suitable for sale and export. The pest affects both the nymph and adult stages, making it harder to control once it spreads in orchards. Researchers said even a small outbreak can become serious if it is not detected early.
A special task force has been formed to study the situation. The team includes experts from ICAR-National Research Centre on Litchi, Bihar Agricultural University and Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University. The group has started scientific surveillance and field visits in several litchi-growing areas of Bhagalpur district. Surveys were carried out in Kahalgaon, Mamalkha, Tintanga and nearby villages.
The survey found only a few nymphs inside the horticulture garden at the BAU Sabour campus. No pest was found in the other orchards visited by the team. Scientists said the infestation is currently limited to one small area, but continued checking is important. The university said it is working with national research centres and the state horticulture department to protect litchi farmers. Officials added that timely pest control, scientific advice and farmer awareness will help stop the spread and protect Bihar’s important litchi trade.
