Sucking Insect Pests and Their Natural Enemies in Black Gram (Vigna mungo L.) under the Climatic Conditions of the Gird Region

Abstract

The present study was conducted during the Kharif season of 2023 and 2024 at the Research Farm, College of Agriculture, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, to investigate the seasonal incidence of major insect pests and natural enemies on black gram (Vigna mungo L.) variety PU-31. Weekly observations were recorded on the population dynamics of Aphis craccivora, Empoasca kerri, Bemisia tabaci, and their natural predator, ladybird beetles. The influence of abiotic and biotic factors on pest populations were analyzed using correlation and regression analysis to support sustainable pest management strategies. The initial infestation of whiteflies, aphids, and leafhoppers was observed in the 33rd standard meteorological week (SMW), with their activity continuing until the 41st SMW. Peak population densities of whiteflies and leafhoppers occurred in the 35th SMW, whereas aphids reached their highest population in the 38th SMW. The abundance of ladybird beetles peaked in the 39th SMW. Correlation analysis revealed non-significant association between sucking pest incidence and temperature, relative humidity, rainfall and evaporation. However, a positively significant correlation was found between aphid populations and ladybird beetle, highlighting the role of biotic interactions in pest regulation. These findings emphasizing the importance of systematic pest monitoring and integrated pest management strategies for sustainable black gram production.