Different insect pollinators diversity on mustard (Brassica juncea L.) crop in Rasmain, Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh

Abstract

Pollination is transfer of pollens from anther to stigma either of the same or different flowers. Pollination is necessary for fertilization and fruit/seed setting. Mustard is self- incompatible and requires cross-pollination to produce seed pod. Cross pollination is of great importance in increasing crop yield, improving seed quality. The pollination process involves numbers of animal pollinators out of which insect pollinators plays major role. The diversity of insect visitors on mustard (Brassica juncea L.) was studied in Rasmai, Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh. A total of 47 insects belonging to 32 genera under 15 families and 5 orders were found to visit the mustard bloom. Insect pollinators collected by using hand picking, fluorescent pan traps and sweep net capture methods during January-February, 2025. Out of which 17 species belonged to Hymenoptera, 12 from Diptera, 15 from Lepidoptera, 3 from Coleoptera and 1 to order Thysanoptera. Among the insects collected from different sampling methods, honey bees were most abundant and frequent visitor. Beside Hymenopterans, Dipterans also constituted an important group of insect pollinators. Pollinators play an indispensable role in the reproductive success of mustard crop. Pollinators promote genetic diversity which can improve the resilience of future mustard generations. Pollination services have a direct economic impact on yield stability and quality in mustard crop. A rich and stable pollinator population typically reflects healthy landscapes, low levels of pollution and high levels of habitat connectivity.