Study of developmental stages and morphometrics of Parthenium beetle in Bastar plateau agro-climatic zone of Chhattisgarh

Parthenium hysterophorus (Gajar ghas or Congress grass) is one of the most aggressive, invasive weeds which threaten natural and agricultural ecosystems. Mexican beetle (Zygogramma bicolorata) is one of the most popular, sustainable, and environment-friendly agents for the management of this harmful weeds. Therefore, the present study was carried out to investigate the developmental stages and morphometrics of Zygogramma bicolorata in Bastar plateau agro-climatic zone of Chhattisgarh. Results (1. Developmental stages: laid egg about 785-1300, grub hatched after 3-4 days and total life Spain was 58-86 days. 2. Morphometric parameters: an average single egg had 1.18-1.24 mm length, 0.4-0.46 mm width, 0.14-0.18 mg weight following length, width and weight of larva, pupa and adult male and female) obtained in the present study might be helpful in mass rearing of Zygogramma bicolorata and for the biological control of parthenium weed in Bastar plateau agro-climatic zone of Chhattisgarh.