Benevolent battlers: Exploring the population dynamics of natural enemies in managing key sucking pests of okra

Abstract

Background: Okra also known as Lady’s finger (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) is an important vegetable crop. Among the pests menace, sucking pests are the most destructive and primary limiting factor in okra cultivation. This study probes into the crucial realm of insect natural enemies and their pivotal role in managing the prevalent sucking pests of Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench). Sucking pests such as aphids, leafhoppers, and whiteflies instinct 54-66% economic damage and the crop cultivated during Kharif and summer seasons are more susceptible to insect infestation. Results: In the present study, 17 species of predatory spiders, 11 species of coccinellids, 12 other predatory insects belonging to six orders and four species of hymenopterans were seen parasitizing on sucking pests of okra, which were morphologically characterized up to species level and their species dominance over a period of two years was assessed. A comprehensive assessment of natural enemy diversity and abundance was conducted using a variety of diversity indices, including Shannon-Wiener, Simpson’s, Pielou’s, and others. The diversity indices calculated for predatory spiders and coccinellids showed that all the species were evenly distributed and no single species was dominating the ecosystem during all three seasons. However, with respect to other predatory insects and parasitoids, a few individuals like Syrphids, Geocoris spp., Pachyneuron aphidis and Aphytis sp. dominated the okra crop and caused an imbalance in the diversity of other predators and parasitoids in the cropping system. Conclusion:The significance of the study extends beyond agrarian systems, emphasizing the broader ecological role of natural enemies and promoting sustainable agricultural practices that harmonize with the ecosystem. Overall, this research advances our knowledge of bio-intensive pest management, advocating for the conservation and augmentation of biodiversity enhancing agricultural sustainability and ecological well-being.