Assessment of phenological and biochemical basis of resistance induced by organic, conventional and conservation practices in groundnut (Arachis hypogaea L.) to Spodoptera litura

Abstract

The studies on biophysical factors at 60 DAS of groundnut revealed lower leaf succulency (72.37%) and higher leaf thickness (6.52 mg/cm2) imparted induced resistance against pest infestation in plants receiving organic nourishment compared to conventional and conservation practices. The biochemical constituent, phenol recorded higher amount (0.53 mg/g fr.wt-1 at 60 DAS) in plants nourished with organics resulting into lower pest incidence owing to induced resistance. The lower amounts of sugars, free amino acids, soluble proteins and prolines also imparted resistance to the plants receiving organics whereas higher quantities recorded in conventional treatments resulted in susceptibility to pests. Morphological characters like plant height, leaf area index, etc. were enhanced in organically nourished plants.