Population dynamics of insect pests and natural enemies in black gram agroecosystems in Telangana, India

Abstract

Black gram (Vigna mungo L.) is a vital pulse crop in India, especially in Telangana, where it faces significant pest pressure from species like leafhoppers, whiteflies, Bihar hairy caterpillars, spotted pod borers, and stem flies, leading to substantial yield losses. This study was conducted during the Kharif 2023 season to analyze the population dynamics of these pests and their natural predators, such as coccinellid beetles and spiders. Data were collected weekly from randomly selected plants and correlated with meteorological factors, including temperature, humidity, and rainfall. The results showed significant correlations between pest populations and environmental factors, with maximum temperature and relative humidity influencing pest activity. The natural enemies, especially coccinellids and spiders, helped regulate pest populations, demonstrating the potential of integrating natural pest control mechanisms into sustainable farming practices. This research provides critical insights for improving pest management strategies and enhancing black gram production.