Foliar supplementation with micronutrients during early growth of bitter gourd fruit (Momordica charantia) augments resistance to melon fly (Bactrocera cucurbitae) infestation by activation of antioxidant system
Year: 2020
Type: article
Abstract: Melon fly is the most destructive pest of cucurbits all over the world.Although, the pest is controlled by the use of insecticides, the risks of development of resistance in the pest due to continued application of pesticide and accumulation of toxic residues in fruits have led to the search for alternative non-chemical control strategies which are eco-safe and environment friendly.In this study, an attempt was made to examine the effect of foliar mineral nutrition on pest incidence and fruit quality.The field study was laid out in a Randomized complete block design in which bitter gourd fruits during the early fruit development phase were sprayed with micronutrient solution containing Ca, Cu, Mg and Mn.Results showed that melon fly infestation was significantly reduced coupled with increased fruit yield and quality.Treated fruits showed significantly higher levels of antioxidants, phenolic acids and flavonoids compared to Control indicating that mineral nutrients protect bitter gourd through activation of antioxidant system in the host combined with their inhibitory effects on oviposition, adult emergence and increased mortality of melon fly larvae.The study established that resistance to melon fly could be induced by supplementing the levels of Ca, Cu, Mg and Mn in bitter gourd fruit by exogenous application at a time when the fruit is most vulnerable to infestation.It appears, therefore, possible to explore foliar micronutrient supplementation as a component of Integrated Pest Management (IPM) strategy for the successful control of melon fly infestation in bitter gourd coupled with higher yield and improved fruit quality.
Language: English
Subfield: Insect Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4206440498