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Efficacy of botanicals against red pumpkin beetle and their impact on pollinator diversity in pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.) cultivation

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: This study aimed to assess insect pollinator diversity in pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.) and evaluate the bio-efficacy of botanicals for pest management while considering their impact on pollinators. Seven pollinator species were identified, with Hymenopterans, particularly honey bees, dominating. Apis dorsata (67.40%) was the most common pollinator, followed by Apis florea (14.28%). Other pollinators included species from Halictidae, Sphecidae, Syrphidae, and Pieridae families. Among the botanicals tested, Azadirachtin seed kernel extract (5%) and leaf extract (10%) effectively managed the red pumpkin beetle (Raphidopalpa foveicollis) with minimal harm to pollinators. Post-application, pollinator activity slightly increased after three to five days. The study highlights the effectiveness of neem-based botanicals in reducing pest populations while conserving pollinators, emphasizing the value of eco-friendly pest control in promoting sustainable pumpkin farming, improving both yield and crop quality.

Source: Indian Journal of Horticulture

DOI: 10.58993/ijh/2024.81.3.7

Authors: Umesh S R, Samuel Naik, V C Karthik, Chethan Kumar K B, Veershetty, Basavaraj N Hadimani, Anil Kumar Vyas, Gangaraj R

Institutions: Maharana Pratap University of Agriculture and Technology, Banaras Hindu University, Indian Agricultural Research Institute, Indian Institute of Vegetable Research

Language: English

Topic: Insect Pest Control Strategies

Subfield: Plant Science

Field: Agricultural and Biological Sciences

Domain: Life Sciences

SDGs: Zero hunger, Life on land

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4403008507

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