Insect Pest Management in Pulses: Novel Approaches
B. L. Jat *
Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Gudamalani, Barmer-II, Agriculture University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.
A. S. Tetarwal
Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Pali, ICAR-Central Arid Zone Research Institute, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.
Mamta Choudhary
Krishi Vigyan Kendra, Maulasar, Nagaur-II, Agriculture University, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
Productivity of pulse crops remains constrained by severe infestations of insect pests, particularly pod borers, pod flies, aphids, whiteflies, leaf miners, thrips, and storage pests. Among these, Helicoverpa armigera, Maruca vitrata, Clavigralla gibbosa, Melanagromyza obtusa, and Bemisia tabaci are the most destructive species affecting chickpea, pigeonpea, mungbean, urdbean, cowpea, lentil, and field pea. This book chapter highlights recent advances and novel approaches to insect pest management in pulses. Several resistant and tolerant genotypes have been identified in different crops. Agronomic strategies have significantly reduced pest incidence and crop damage. The use of pheromone traps, light traps, and economic-threshold-based interventions has improved pest surveillance and timely decision-making. Biopesticides have demonstrated promising efficacy against major lepidopteran pests while reducing dependence on conventional insecticides. Natural enemies have also contributed substantially to pest suppression. Emerging evidence further indicates that elevated temperatures and atmospheric CO₂ may alter plant–insect interactions and influence pest dynamics in pulse ecosystems. The integration of resistant cultivars, ecological engineering, biological control agents, and safer chemistries offers a sustainable and environmentally sound strategy for effective insect pest management in pulse crops.
Keywords: Pulses, integrated pest management, host-plant resistance, gronomic practices, biological control, biopesticides, climate change