Comparative development and population growth of an exotic stemborer, Chilo partellus (Swinhoe), and an ecologically similar congener, C. orichalcociliellus (Strand) (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

Publication Type

Journal Article

Journal Name

Entomologia Experimentalis et Applicata

Publication Date

1-1-1994

Abstract

Two experiments to establish the relationship between insect suppression by intercropping and grain yield in sorghum and cowpea were conducted under field conditions. Treatments consisted of monocrops and intercrops of sorghum and cowpea and an additional pair of monocultures and mixtures protected by insecticides. Intercropping reduced the numbers of stem borer, Chilo partellus in sorghum and thrips, Megalurothrips sjostedti in cowpea. In the monocropped, unprotected sorghum, yield was reduced by 28% compared to the protected monocrop, while reduction in the unprotected intercropped sorghum was 15% compared to the protected intercrop. Similarly, in the unprotected cowpea, monocrop yield was reduced by 94% and intercrop yield was reduced by 51%. Thus, there are yield advantages under conditions where intercropping reduces insect pest density. Intercropping can form a component of an integrated pest management programme. 1994 The Netherlands Entomological Society

Keywords

Chilo partellus, cowpea yield, intercropping, Megalurothrips sjostedti, sorghum yield

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