Biology of pulse beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus (Fab.) infesting cowpea

Abstract

Investigation was undertaken during January- May, 2021 to study biology and management of stored cowpea against pulse beetle, Callosobruchus maculatus (Fab.) at College of Agriculture, Pune. Studies on biology of pulse beetle, C. maculatus revealed that pre-ovipositional, ovipositional and ovipositional periods ranged from 3-9 hours with mean of 4.3 (±0.70) hours, 5-7 days with mean of 6.3 (±0.94) days and 1-3 days with mean of 2.4 (±0.70) days, respectively. Fecundity ranged from 49-62 eggs/female. Incubation period ranged from 3-5 days with mean of 5.4 (±0.7) and 8 (±1.05) days, respectively. Mean sex ratio (male: female) was 1:1.10. Total developmental period ranged from 22-26 days with mean of 22.9 (±1.66) days.