Biotechnologie, Agronomie, Société et Environnement (Jan 2001)
Caractérisation du savoir paysan sur les insectes nuisibles du pois d'Angole (Cajanus Cajan (L.) Millsp.) dans le Nord de l'Ouganda
Abstract
Characterization of indigenous traditional knowledge on insect pests of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) in Northern Uganda. In order to assess the perception of the main insect pests of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan (L.) Millsp.) by small farmers and to inventoriate methods traditionally used to control these insects, a survey was conducted in 41 households of Northern Uganda (Lira and Apac districts). Virtually all small farmers (95/) considered blister beetle (Mylabris sp.), which is the most conspicious insect damaging pigeonpea at the flowering stage, as the main pest of the crop. This is conflicting with field observations made earlier in Northern Uganda which pointed out pod borers (Helicoverpa armigera Huebner and Maruca vitrata Geyer) and pod sucking bugs (mainly Clavigralla sp.) as the most damaging pests for pigeonpea production. A new pest of pigeonpea, Luprops baldius Mueller, was identified during this survey. Its adults and larvae are damaging to mature pods in case of late harvest.
