Pink stem borer (Sesamia inferens) is a significant pest that adversely affects the wheat crop. It is prevalent in tropical and subtropical regions across Asia, including India, China, and Bangladesh, and causes substantial yield losses if not adequately controlled. The larvae of pink stem borer bore into the stem of the wheat plant and feed on the inner tissues, leading to wilting, lodging, and ultimately, reduced grain yield. Therefore, it is crucial to adopt appropriate strategies to manage this pest.
Cultural control measures are effective in preventing pink stem borer infestation. One of the essential ways is to maintain field hygiene by timely and adequate removal of crop residues, which act as a breeding ground for the pest. Also, conservation tillage and crop rotation practices can help in reducing the pink stem borer population and breaking the pest’s life cycle. Farmers can intercrop wheat with maize or pigeon pea to reduce pink stem borer infestation.
Biological control measures, including the use of natural enemies, such as parasitoids and predators, can also aid in controlling pink stem borer. Trichogramma chilonis and Bracon brevicornis are two commonly used parasitoids that are effective against pink stem borer. They parasitize pink stem borer eggs and larvae, respectively, leading to their death. However, the use of biological control agents must be integrated with other control measures for maximum effectiveness.
Chemical control measures can also help in controlling pink stem borer. Insecticides such as chlorantraniliprole, indoxacarb, and diflubenzuron are effective against pink stem borer and can be sprayed during the early stages of larval infestation. However, care must be taken to avoid excessive or unnecessary use of insecticides to prevent the development of resistance in the pest population. Farmers must follow the label instructions while using insecticides and ensure that they use only the recommended rates and application methods.
In conclusion, control of pink stem borer in wheat requires an integrated approach through the use of cultural, biological, and chemical control measures. A combination of these strategies can help in reducing pest populations and managing the damage caused by pink stem borer. Farmers must implement these measures at the correct timing and in the recommended methods for maximum effectiveness. Timely monitoring of the pest population and assessment of damage levels can also aid in decision-making regarding control measures. By adopting these strategies, farmers can mitigate the risk of pink stem borer infestation and protect their wheat crop from yield losses.