Effectiveness of Natural Pest Control in Chickpea Plants Against Cotton Bollworm

Jim Crocker
29th June, 2024

Effectiveness of Natural Pest Control in Chickpea Plants Against Cotton Bollworm

The application of entomopathogenic nematodes in laboratory (c) and field trials (a, e, f) proved effective for controlling the cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera, leading to larval death and the subsequent emergence of nematode progeny from their cadavers (d, h, i).

Image adapted from: Mengal et al. / CC BY (Source)

Key Findings

  • The study was conducted in Naseerabad, Balochistan, Pakistan, to explore eco-friendly pest control for chickpea crops
  • Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) significantly reduced the cotton bollworm larval population in chickpea fields
  • EPNs offer an effective, eco-friendly alternative to chemical pesticides, reducing pest damage and economic losses for farmers
The chickpea, scientifically known as Cicer arietinum (Fabaceae), has been facing significant economic challenges due to the infestation of cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). This pest has caused considerable damage to chickpea fields, leading to substantial financial losses for farmers. Traditional control methods using chemical pesticides have shown limited success and have led to the development of resistance among the larvae, resulting in a rapid resurgence of H. armigera populations in the fields[1]. Given these challenges, there is a growing interest in eco-friendly pest management methods. One promising approach is the use of biocontrol agents. Entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) have been extensively studied and utilized in various biological control programs to manage insect pests. EPNs are microscopic roundworms that can infect and kill a wide range of insect pests. They have been successfully used to control insect pests in crops, ornamental plants, trees, and turf[2]. The study conducted by Naseerabad Agriculture Extension explores the potential of using biocontrol agents, specifically EPNs, to manage the infestation of H. armigera in chickpea fields. The researchers aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of EPNs in controlling the larval population of H. armigera and reducing the economic losses caused by this pest. The study involved the application of commercially produced EPNs to chickpea fields infested with H. armigera larvae. The researchers monitored the larval population and the overall health of the chickpea plants over a specified period. The results showed a significant reduction in the larval population after the application of EPNs. This indicates that EPNs can effectively control H. armigera larvae and reduce the damage caused to chickpea plants. The findings of this study are consistent with previous research on the use of EPNs for pest control. EPNs have been successfully used to control various insect pests, including scarab larvae in lawns and turf, fungus gnats in mushroom production, invasive mole crickets in lawns and turf, black vine weevil in nursery plants, and Diaprepes root weevil in citrus[2]. The success of EPNs in these applications highlights their potential as a biocontrol agent for managing H. armigera in chickpea fields. One of the key advantages of using EPNs as biocontrol agents is their eco-friendly nature. Unlike chemical pesticides, EPNs do not pose a risk to human health or the environment. They are naturally occurring organisms that specifically target insect pests without harming beneficial insects or other non-target organisms. This makes EPNs a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to chemical pesticides. The study conducted by Naseerabad Agriculture Extension also highlights the importance of adopting integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. IPM involves the use of multiple control methods, including biological, cultural, and chemical approaches, to manage pest populations effectively. By incorporating EPNs into an IPM program, farmers can reduce their reliance on chemical pesticides and minimize the risk of pesticide resistance development in pest populations. In conclusion, the study conducted by Naseerabad Agriculture Extension demonstrates the potential of using EPNs as a biocontrol agent to manage H. armigera infestation in chickpea fields. The findings are supported by previous research on the successful use of EPNs for controlling various insect pests[2]. The adoption of EPNs as part of an integrated pest management strategy offers an eco-friendly and sustainable solution to the economic losses caused by H. armigera in chickpea cultivation.

AgriculturePlant ScienceAnimal Science

References

Main Study

1) Efficacy of entomopathogenic nematodes in laboratory and field conditions of Cicer arietinum against cotton bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)

Published 28th June, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1186/s41938-024-00800-9

Related Studies

2) Entomopathogenic nematodes for control of insect pests above and below ground with comments on commercial production.

Journal: Journal of nematology, Issue: Vol 44, Issue 2, Jun 2012


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