Landscape-Based Habitat Engineering for Sugarcane Ecosystem: A Green Technological Option for Pest Management

Abstract

A conceptual model of habitat augmentation for subtropical sugarcane ecosystem has been established to enhance its self-regulatory capacity for pest protection by linking species interrelationships and their trophic interactions. In order to ensure adequate number of predators and parasitoids to deliver the desired level of pest control, strategic approach is needed to support natural enemies. The provisioning of food for their adults, alternate hosts in the vicinity, shelter, etc., through habitat alteration may be the sustainable answer. The innovative design in this model that is integration of lac cultivation in the neighborhood of sugarcane is expected to prolong food availability to adult parasitoids, alternate host and shelter. The lac insect and its host plant are excellent source of honey dew, nectar and is available almost year round. The associated insect fauna of lac is not only potential natural biocontrol agents but also lac cultivation supports honey bee population. It is believed that such a model of habitat augmentation in conjunction with the presently available tools in biological insect management will be more effective with a lower cost of operation. The additional cash income through lac is another benefit to sugarcane farmers. We anticipate that the ecological and economic benefits of the suggested model may add value to the sugarcane ecosystem and will attract attention of all the stakeholders associated with this commercial crop.