Artificial Seed Bioassay for Assessing Genotypic Resistance of Pigeon Pea to Callosobruchus chinensis

Abstract

Pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis is a significant pest of stored legumes, particularly pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan), causing substantial damage and economic losses. This study investigates the resistance of various pigeonpea genotypes to C. chinensis using artificial seeds in a controlled single-choice bioassay. Artificial seeds in bioassays help provide consistent conditions for studying pigeon pea resistance to pests like C. chinensis. Unlike natural seeds, which can vary in traits like size, texture, and composition, artificial seeds ensure that any observed resistance is due to the plant's genetics, not differences in the seeds themselves.  Despite using seeds with different proportions of resistant and susceptible genotypes, no significant differences were observed in the beetle oviposition behavior. The findings suggest that factors other than nutritional content may influence bruchid resistance, emphasize the need for further research into specific phytochemicals responsible for resistance. This work has important implications for the development of more resistant pigeon pea cultivars.