COMPARATIVE EFFICACY OF FOUR INSECTICIDES AGAINST AMERICAN BOLLWORM (Helicoverpa armigera) UNDER FIELD CONDITIONS

Abstract

The tomato, Solanum lycopersicum L., is the 2nd major crop which is widely grown on the large area of Pakistan. This crop is affected by the fruit borer, Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner). Although some predators and parasitoids have been recorded in the field for their natural control, their manipulation to a successful crop management is still awaited. The present study was planned to evaluate the toxic effects of four insecticides, i.e. Coragen 20SI (Chlorantraniliprole), Steward (indoxicarb), Belt 39.4 (Flubendiamide), Proclaim (emamectin benzoate) against tomato fruit borer (H. armigera) under field conditions. The research trial was laid out under randomized complete block design (RCBD) together with control. Findings of the bioassays displayed that Coragen 20SI exhibited noteworthy mortality (75.23%) of H. armigera after exposure of 6 days, among the four tested insecticides. Whilst Proclaim and Chlorantraniliprole exhibited relatively lower mortalities of 70.90% and 65.41%, respectively. While relatively lower mortality values i.e. 61.10, 55.41, 52.76 and 48.19% were recorded after 4 days and 57.80, 50.12, 46.09 and 39.24% after 2 days. Overall, results disclosed that all four tested insecticides gave enhanced control under controlled experimental conditions. Hence, Coragen 20SI and Steward can be used in integrated pest management (IPM) of H. armigera.