Harmful Insects of Okra and Eggplant : A Study Conducted in the Lowland Areas of Daloa

Abstract

Aims: This study aims to inventorize and characterize the harmful insects associated with okra and eggplant in the city of Daloa (Central-Western Côte d’Ivoire). Study Design: Descriptive transversal survey. Place and Duration of Study: In various lowland areas of the city of Daloa during the dry season, from February to April 2025. Methodology: Harmful insects were collected from okra and eggplant crops located in various lowland areas of the city of Daloa. At each site, ten (10) plants of each crop were randomly selected when okra and eggplant were cultivated together; when only one of the two species was present, the same procedure was applied to the available crop. Sampling focused on the leaves and fruits of mature, productive plants. Insects were captured using transparent white plastic bags. The method consisted of enclosing a portion of the plant, including leaves and/or fruits, inside a labeled bag and then gently shaking this part of the plant to dislodge and trap the harmful insects inside the bag. Results: In total, three species of jassids were identified, along with two additional types of pests: phytophagous bugs and aphids. The molecular approach confirmed the identification of the jassids and reliably distinguished them from the other insects collected. Conclusion: The combination of these approaches provides a better understanding of pest distribution, their relationship with host plants, and their relevance for developing effective plant protection strategies.