Ecological study on pest dynamics and Helicoverpa armigera (Hub.) activity in gram under varying weather conditions
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: Chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) is one of the most important pulse crops in India; however, its productivity is constrained by several insect pests, particularly the gram pod borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner). Understanding seasonal pest dynamics and their relationship with weather parameters is essential for developing effective forecasting and integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. Helicoverpa armigera was the predominant insect pest during both cropping seasons. Larval infestation commenced during the 50th Standard Meteorological Week (SMW) and reached its peak during the 12th SMW, recording 8.20 and 7.70 larvae plant⁻¹ during 2022–23 and 2023–24, respectively, with seasonal mean populations of 2.38 and 2.31 larvae plant⁻¹. Other insect pests, namely Autographa nigrisigna, Spodoptera litura, and Aphis craccivora, occurred at comparatively lower population levels. Adult moth catches in pheromone traps closely followed the seasonal build-up of larval populations, demonstrating the utility of pheromone-based surveillance for early pest detection. The abundance of natural enemies, particularly Coccinella septempunctata and Mantis religiosa, increased following pest establishment, indicating their contribution to natural biological control. Correlation analysis revealed that fluctuations in H. armigera populations were significantly influenced by prevailing weather variables, particularly temperature and relative humidity, confirming the importance of meteorological factors in determining seasonal pest incidence.
Institution: AISECT University
Language: English
Subfield: Insect Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W7204104345