ABSTRACT
Highly developed crop production depends upon acquisition of information on the magnitude of crop damages and losses, and ways of dealing with them effectively and expeditiously. Field trials were conducted in 2008/2009 at three locations in Asaba to identify insect pests associated with fluted pumpkin (Telfaria occidentalis). A total of 22 species of insects categorized into four orders and ten families were encountered throughout the study periods. Species from three families were rated as major insects and three as minor. Damages ranged from tattered and notched holes on leaves, copious sucking of sap from tender leaves and vines, and defoliation of leaves. Distribution of insects across the locations indicated occurrence of 34.3%, 31.8% and 34% at Mile 5, Anwai and Musa Camp respectively. The baseline pumpkin generated could be harnessed to develop control strategies for the local insect pests. |
