Introduction to Insect Pests of Arhar [Cajanus cajan (Linnaeus) Huth] Crop and their Management: A Review
Dwarka
Department of Entomology, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, 482004, India.
S. G. Ghugal
Department of Entomology, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, 482004, India.
Shobharam Thakur
PC Unit Sesame and Niger, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, CoA, Tikamgarh, Madhya Pradesh-472001, India.
Sheeren Parveen
Department of Entomology, Jawaharlal Nehru Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, 482004, India.
Nisha Chadar *
Department of Botany, Post Graduate Excellence College, Tikamgarh, Madhya Pradesh, 472001, India.
Babli
Department of Plant Pathology, Rajmata Vijayaraje Scindia Krishi Vishwa Vidyalaya, Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh, 474002, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Arhar (Cajanus cajan), commonly known as pigeonpea, is an important leguminous crop widely cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions due to its high nutritional value and adaptability. However, the cultivation of arhar is significantly impacted by various insect pests, which pose serious threats to its growth and yield. This paper provides an overview of the major insect pests affecting arhar, including the gram pod borer (Helicoverpa armigera), spotted pod borer (Maruca vitrata) and pod fly (Melanagromyza obtusa), among others. These pests contribute to substantial yield losses through their feeding habits on flowers, pods, and foliage. The interactions between these pests and the abiotic and biotic factors influencing their populations are also discussed. Effective management strategies are essential for mitigating the damage caused by these pests. Integrated pest management (IPM) approaches, including cultural, biological, and chemical control measures, are emphasized as sustainable practices to enhance crop productivity while minimizing environmental impacts. The importance of developing pest-resistant varieties and the role of monitoring and forecasting systems in pest management are highlighted to support farmers in achieving optimal arhar production.
Keywords: Insect pests of arhar, IPM, Helicoverpa armigera and effective management