Farmer perception, knowledge and management of the scale insect pest complex infesting crops and trees in Coastal Kenya

Abstract

Scale insects and mealybugs (Hemiptera: Sternorrhyncha: Coccomorpha) are serious plant sap-sucking pests affecting a wide range of cultivated crops and tree species. The insects are highly diverse and can have devastating effects on yields due to lack of farmer awareness and inappropriate management practices. Recent alien mealybug invasions in Kenya include among others, papaya mealybug (Paracoccus marginatus), a highly invasive pest that is spreading quickly. Farmer experience with diverse crop pests can support development of a successful pest management strategy and contribute to reduced impacts on both crop yields and agro-biodiversity. This socio-economic survey was carried out in three coastal counties of Kenya (Mombasa, Kilifi and Kwale) to establish the impact of scale insect and mealybug pests on farmer livelihoods and to document the perception, knowledge and management practices used by smallholder farmers. Data from oral interviews using ODK were administered to respondents and analysed using Excel and GENSTAT. It emerged that 26% of the respondents were familiar with scale insects and 51% with mealybugs, respectively. Of these, 78.13 % and 94% acknowledged having encountered scale insects and mealybugs, respectively, on their farms. The farmers confirmed that scale insect pests affected a high diversity of crops and trees. About 56% of the respondents used pesticides to control the pests while 25% did not apply any management strategy. The remaining 19% practiced cultural control methods such as field sanitation and intercropping with less susceptible crops. Pesticides were reported to be moderately effective (41-70%) at controlling scale insects and mealybugs. Other management options reported by farmers included farm hygiene, the use of high-pressure water jets, and applications of ash and bio-pesticides such as home-made neem extract. Based on the findings, it is recommended that capacity building for farmers and input providers be undertaken to enhance the knowledge of scale insect and mealybug pest biology, symptoms of crop and tree attack, host ranges and management practices. Additonally, training on the use of low-risk pest control products and innovative control methods should be undertaken to reduce the impact of the pest on crop production and agro-biodiversity. Keywords: Farmer knowledge, management, mealybugs, scale insects and socio-economic survey.