Effect of plant products on oviposition, adult emergence and weight loss of pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis (Linn.) In stored black gram grains

Abstract

Plants have been known as a rich source of bioactive molecules. These have been exploited in insect pest management strategies as repellent, oviposition deterrent, antifeedants and in many other ways in the biology of insects. The present studies were undertaken to evolve eco-friendly methods of pulse beetle management in stored grains of black gram (Vigna mungo (L.) Hepper). Different dosages of neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss.) leaf powder, black pepper (Piper nigrum L.) fruit powder, aonla (Emblica officinalis L.) fruit powder, chaste tree (Vitex negundo L.) leaf powder, curry (Murraya koenigii) leaf powder, mustard (Brassica juncea L.) oil and neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss.) seed kernel oil were used. Both the oils @7.5 andf 10 ml/kg was more effective. While application of black pepper @ 3 and 5 g/kg provides complete protection of black gram grains up to 150 days of storage. Also the neem leaf powder @ 5g/kg seed was quite effective in bruchid management in stored black gram.