Efficacy and feasibility of various IPM tools against PoD borer (Helicoverpa armigera) of chickpea in thal regions of Punjab

Abstract

Polyphagous pest, Helicoverpa armigera is a major detrimental factor of gram affecting both quality and quantity of the produce in Thal regions of Punjab. Therefore, experiment was conducted to check the efficacy and feasibility of five IPM tools viz. Pheromone traps, Light traps, Trichogramma chilonis, Bacillus thuringiensis, T-shaped bird perches and Handpicking. Results showed the cumulative effects of all IPM components having 4.81, 4.96, 6.22 % foliage, pod and grain damage, 0.71 larva/plant with 32.28 % yield increase over control treatment. But Marginal Cost Benefit Ratio was -0.46. Light traps proved more efficient and feasible having low environmental risks having minimum percent foliage, pod and gain damage of 2.09, 0.71 and 0.29, respectively with 0.13 larval population/plant, maximum yield of 875 kg/ ha with 68.84 % yield increase over control under current investigations. Light traps had ideal MCBR of 13.3 with net income Rs. 32000 followed by B. thuringiensis and hand picking having net income Rs. 11150 and 10300, respectively. T. chilonis and T-bird perches were least effective having net income 3850 and 5075, MCBR 5.13 and 3.12, respectively. Light traps had maximum adult catches of 706/ cropping season, which reduces the larval population by suppressing the egg laying of adults. Maximum adult catches were recorded during the month of July with 9.36/night having positive and significant correlation with temperature.