Taxonomic analysis of photo tactic insect pests of medicinal crops

Abstract

Study reported that total of 11 phototropic insect pests were recorded from August to December 2019. These species belongs to 4 orders and 8 families. Largest collection was represented by order Lepidoptera (4 species) followed by orders Hemiptera (3 species), Orthoptera (3 species) and Coleoptera (1 species). Major polyphagous pests of medicinal crops viz. Helicoverpa armigera, Agrotis ipsilon, Spodoptera litura, Plusia orichalcea, Nephotettix virescens, Nezara viridula, Dysdercus koenigii, Trilophidia cristata and Gryllotalpa orientalis were active during the season. The present findings will be very useful for surveillance, monitoring and incorporation of light trap as a component of IPM against phototactic pests of medicinal crops.