The larval population and crop growth phase for screening cowpea for resistance to Maruca testulalis (Geyer) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in Nigeria based on flowers, pods and yield loss

Abstract

Cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) var. Ife Brown was infested with first instar larvae of Maruca testulalis at three crop growth stages: flower primodia, flower bud and open flower stages. Successful establishment of larvae was possible only at the flower bud stage. An infestation of two larvae per plant was optimal for detecting differences in flower and pod production and difference in yield between infested and uninfested plant.

Keywords:

• Crop resistance
• Maruca testulalis
• Nigeria
• yield loss

Notes

To whom correspondence should be sent.

Present address: National Root Crops Research, Institute, Umudike, Umuahia, Nigeria.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

T. N. C. Echendu

† ‡