Correlationship between Aphids and Their Natural Enemeies in wheat Agroecosystem in North-Western Rajasthan, India

Abstract

Insect pests are a serious constraint on global wheat production. Pests can significantly impair agricultural output and quality. Among the several biotic and abiotic elements, insect pest damage results in a significant reduction in yield. Aphids are a severe wheat pest that can cause significant crop damage. Aphids can cause wheat damage through direct feeding, viral vectoring, and honeydew emission, which can result in fungal infections. The study analyzed the correlation between insect pests, specifically corn and wheat aphids, and their natural enemies in wheat during the Rabi seasons of 2023-24 and 2024-25. The experiment was conducted at the Instructional Experimental Farm, Agricultural Research Station, India. The population dynamics of major insect pests of wheat and their natural enemies was recorded at weekly interval right from appearance to till maturity of crop. The data recorded on the population of major insect pests and natural enemies were used for statistical analysis. The correlation was computed among the population of major insect pests, natural enemies using the standard formula. The syrphid fly showed strong positive relationships with both species, indicating their effectiveness as biological control agents. The ladybird beetles revealed a stronger positive correlation with wheat aphids, suggesting they may prefer them. Green Lacewing larvae also showed positive correlations with both species, with Wheat aphids showing higher values. The findings highlight the importance of conserving and enhancing populations of Syrphid Flies, Lady Bird Beetles, and Green Lacewings in wheat cusltivation to promote sustainable pest management strategies. Further research could explore how abiotic factors such as temperature, humidity, and rainfall modulate these relationships to optimize integrated pest management (IPM) approaches.