Sure, here’s an article on the attack of leaf-eating caterpillars on pigeon pea:
Attack of Leaf-Eating Caterpillar on Pigeon Pea: How to Identify and Control Them
Pigeon pea, also known as red gram, is an important grain legume grown widely in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. It is a popular crop for small farmers as it is hardy, drought-tolerant, and provides food, fodder, and fuel for rural communities. However, like other crops, pigeon pea is vulnerable to pests and diseases that can reduce yield and quality. One of the common pests that attack pigeon pea is the leaf-eating caterpillar.
Identifying the Leaf-Eating Caterpillar
The leaf-eating caterpillar is the larval stage of a moth. The adult moth lays eggs on the leaves of the pigeon pea plant, and the emerging larvae feed on the foliage, flowers, and pods. The caterpillar is small, about 2 cm long, and has a greenish-yellow body with black spots and a black head. It has three pairs of true legs and four pairs of prolegs. The caterpillar is most active during the day and prefers to feed on young and tender leaves.
Symptoms of Leaf-Eating Caterpillar Infestation
The first sign of leaf-eating caterpillar infestation is the appearance of small holes and notches on the leaves. As the caterpillars grow in size and number, they can strip the leaves completely, leaving only the veins. This can reduce the photosynthetic capacity of the plant and lead to stunted growth, poor pod formation, and lower yields. The caterpillars also excrete a blackish-green frass that can stain the leaves and pods and attract ants.
Control Measures for Leaf-Eating Caterpillar
There are several ways to control the leaf-eating caterpillar infestation on pigeon pea. Here are some effective measures:
1. Cultural Control
Practicing good cultural practices can reduce the incidence of leaf-eating caterpillars. These include:
– Planting pigeon pea in clean and well-drained soil
– Crop rotation to avoid planting pigeon pea in the same field repeatedly
– Intercropping pigeon pea with other crops such as maize, sorghum, or cowpea, which can act as trap crops for pests
– Regular weeding and removal of dead plant material that can harbor pests
2. Biological Control
Using natural enemies of the leaf-eating caterpillar can help reduce its population. These can include:
– Parasitic wasps that lay their eggs inside the caterpillar and kill it
– Predatory insects such as ladybirds, lacewings, and spiders that feed on the caterpillar
– Nematodes that infect and kill the caterpillar
3. Chemical Control
Applying insecticides can be effective in controlling the leaf-eating caterpillar infestation, but it should be done judiciously. Here are some guidelines:
– Use only registered insecticides that are recommended for pigeon pea and follow the label instructions carefully
– Apply the insecticide during the early stages of the infestation when the caterpillars are small and vulnerable
– Avoid excessive use of insecticides as it can harm beneficial insects and pollute the environment
In conclusion, the leaf-eating caterpillar is a common pest that can damage pigeon pea plants and reduce yield. However, by practicing good cultural practices, using biological control agents, and applying insecticides judiciously, farmers can effectively manage the infestation and protect their crop.