Podborer insect pests attacking pigeonpea, cajanus cajan (L) millsp, at flowering and post-flowering stages and their impact on yield in Kenya
Abstract
The pigeonpea Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp, is one
of the major pulse crops farmed in Kenya particularly
in arid and semi-arid areas. It is important for its
nutritive value to people because of its high protein
content.
One of the constraints that limit pigeonpea
production in the tropics is infestation by insect
pests, particularly on the harvestable reproductive
parts (flower buds, flowers,pods and seeds) .
Investigations were therefore initiated to identify
the common insect podborers and their effect on seed
yield in major pigeonpea production zones in Kenya.
Three study sites; Thika, Kiboko and Karaba from
Muranga, Machakos and Embu districts respectively
were used for these investigations where improved "
pigeonpea cultivar, NPP 670, was planted.
During the study period, a total of 40 insect
pest species were recorded attacking pigeonpea
reproductive parts.
Citation
MSc.Publisher
School of Biological Sciences, University of Nairobi
Description
Masters of Science (Agricultural Entomology)