Abstract
Economic loss causing pests of cucurbits also includes red pumpkin beetle. Damage of the beetle ranges between 35-75% at
seedling stage while canopy infestation could be 15-75% depending on the canopy density. Wide host range of the beetle
enlists Indian snap melon as host. Difference physical plant characters including leaf area, moisture contents, leaf sheath
thickness and hair density were examined among ten different landraces (MLT, BHW, SHW, SRD, FSD, TTS, SHK, VH, HP, RYK) of Indian snap melon, named after the district of collection. Maximum mean population (8.06) and percent leaf
infestation (15.46) per plant were recorded in Sheikhupura (SHK) landrace. Whereas, minimum mean population (5.56) and
infestation (10.63) was recorded in landrace Bahawalpur (BHW) landrace. Leaf area, leaf moisture contents and leaf sheath
thickness varied significantly among different landraces but leaf hair density does not varied significantly. Impact of leaf hair
density was not calculated due to non-significant variations, all other factors respond positively to the beetle’s population and
infestation. Data was recorded on per plant basis both for population and percent leaf infestation. Data was collected on every
5
th day beginning 15 days after sowing. Data was analyzed using Statistica 8.0 and compared using DMR test.
