Xystrocera dispar (mango stem borer) - Sikkim Beetle

Xystrocera dispar, also known as the mango stem borer or "aamko botkira" in Nepali, is an insect that affects mango trees. The adult beetle is about 20-30 mm long with a shiny, metallic body. The larvae bore into the stems and branches of mango trees, causing significant damage.

This boring disrupts the flow of nutrients and water, leading to weakened or dead branches. Infested trees often show signs like wilting leaves and dieback. Managing this pest involves regular monitoring and removing infected parts of the tree to prevent the spread of the larvae.

Batocera rufomaculata (Fig borer) - Sikkim Beetle

Batocera rufomaculata, commonly known as Fig borer, tropical fig borer, mango stem borer, a long-horn beetle originating from Asia, was described by Charles De Geer in 1775. It infests various trees including Ficus carica, Carica papaya, Mangifera indica, and Shorea robusta, posing a threat to fruit tree cultivation, particularly mangoes, by causing yield loss and tree death.

Human activities have spread globally, affecting regions like Israel, Madagascar, and the Virgin Islands. Control efforts face challenges due to its broad host range and susceptibility to parasitic infection by Avetianella batocerae. Effective management strategies focus on monitoring, quarantine, and biological controls to mitigate its impact on agriculture and forestry.

Lilium longiflorum ( Easter lily) - Sikkim Flora

Dogeythang Primary School

The Easter lily, scientifically known as Lilium longiflorum, belongs to the Liliales order and the Liliaceae family. It's a lovely white flower native to Japan, known for its pleasant fragrance and trumpet-shaped blooms. The plant can reach heights of up to 1 meter (3 feet) and typically blooms in late spring to early summer.

It has long, lance-shaped leaves and prefers well-drained soil and partial sunlight. The Easter lily is often associated with the Easter holiday and is widely used in floral arrangements and garden landscaping.