Management of Insect Pests in the Production and Storage of Minor Pulses

Abstract

Minor pulses are cultivated on a small scale by economically poor farming communities for subsistence food. Currently, these crops are under-utilized or neglected, although they are reasonable sources of protein and can increase food security in rural areas. Research and development is underway to improve the grain quality and increase the productivity of these crops, both of which are negatively impacted by insect pest damage. Synthetic pesticides have proven to be the most effective control agents against all pests of minor pulses which include sap sucking insects. However, considering the drawbacks of pesticide residues in the grain, environmental pollution, and damage to natural enemies associated with synthetic pesticide use, integrated pest management schemes for pulses are being developed. For example, economic thresholds are being developed for pests of green gram (Vigna radiata [L.] R. Wilczek) and black gram (Vigna mungo [L.] Hepper) to avoid unnecessary pesticide applications. The adoption of these integrated practices by farmers in resource-poor communities should improve food security in rural areas. Here, we summarize existing information about the integrated control of pests of pulse crops.