Bihar Hairy Caterpillar is a common pest of soybean crops that not only reduces yield but also affects the quality of the beans. Timely control measures are essential to prevent economic losses. In this article, we will discuss the ways to control Bihar Hairy Caterpillar in soybean crops.
Identification of Bihar Hairy Caterpillar
Bihar Hairy Caterpillar is the larvae of the moth Spilarctia obliqua. These caterpillars have a hairy appearance and are about 2-3 cm long. They are mostly found in groups and feed on the leaves of soybean plants, causing defoliation. The young larvae are black, and as they grow, they turn greenish-brown with a hairy appearance.
Control Measures
1. Cultural control methods:
The following cultural control methods can be used to manage Bihar Hairy Caterpillar in soybean crops:
– Crop rotation: Crop rotation can be used to break the life cycle of the pest. It is recommended to avoid planting soybean crops in the same field for more than one year.
– Early sowing: Early sowing of soybean crops can help to escape the peak period of Bihar Hairy Caterpillar infestation, which usually starts from mid-July.
– Regular field sanitation: Regular field sanitation practices like removing crop residues and weeds can help to reduce the population of Bihar Hairy Caterpillar.
2. Chemical control methods:
The following chemical control methods can be used to manage Bihar Hairy Caterpillar in soybean crops:
– Insecticides: Application of insecticides like chlorpyrifos, quinalphos, or cypermethrin, can help to manage Bihar Hairy Caterpillar in soybean crops. These insecticides should be applied at the early stage of the pest infestation.
– Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) based insecticides: Bt based insecticides are effective against insects like Bihar Hairy Caterpillar. These insecticides should be applied at the early stage of the pest infestation.
– Biopesticides: Biopesticides like neem-based products and NPV (Nuclear Polyhedrosis Virus) can also be used to control Bihar Hairy Caterpillar in soybean crops.
Conclusion
Bihar Hairy Caterpillar is a common pest of soybean crops that can cause yield and quality losses. Timely control measures like cultural and chemical methods can help to manage the pest effectively. Farmers should take preventive measures like crop rotation and regular field sanitation practices to reduce the population of the pest. Insecticides, Bt based insecticides, and biopesticides can be used to control Bihar Hairy Caterpillar in soybean crops. It is important to apply these control measures at the early stage of the pest infestation to prevent economic losses.