Bionomics, host plant resistance, and management of the legume pod borer, Maruca vitrata — a review

Abstract

Legume pod borer, Maruca (testulalis) vitrata (Geyer) is one of the major constraints in increasing the production and productivity of grain legumes in the tropics. Screening for resistance has been carried out using natural infestation, and multi-and no-choice tests under greenhouse/laborator conditions. Information is available on genotypic resistance to M. vitrata in cowpea, while such information on pigeonpea and other legumes is limited. Stem and pod wall thickness, trichomes and podding habit are associated with resistance to Mamcu. Several natural enemies have been recorded on M vitrata. Cultural practices such as intercropping, weeding, time of planting, and planting density reduce its damage in cowpea. Several insecticides have been found to be effective for controlling this insect. There is a need to generate information on insect-plant-environment interactions, screening techniques, mechanisms and diversity of resistance, genetic transformation of host plants involving Bt genes, and use of natural enemies for integrated pest management in diverse agro-ecosystems.

The Bt gene cry2Aa2 driven by a tissue specific ST-LS1 promoter from potato effectively controls Heliothis virescens

“…syn. M. testulalis Geyer), enters the flower buds or pods by tunneling into them (Sharma, 1998). Targeted expression of Cry protein strictly to the green tissues might help ensure compliance with the IRM guidelines, an effective control of such insects in a sustainable manner.…”

Maruca vitrata (Fabricius) [Lepidoptera: Pyralidae] larval population dynamics as affected by intra-row spacing, sowing dates and biopesticides on cowpea

“…The use of synthetic chemicals in the management of post-flowering insect pests including M. vitrata at 10 days interval give effective control of pod-borer (Sharma, 1998). However, excessive use of these chemicals has some associated problems often leading to general environmental contamination, elimination of economically beneficial insects as well as development of resistance by the pest (Immaraju et al, 1992) and expensive for small scale farmers as well as highly toxic to humans and animals (Sharma, 1998;Asante et al, 2001).…”

“…However, excessive use of these chemicals has some associated problems often leading to general environmental contamination, elimination of economically beneficial insects as well as development of resistance by the pest (Immaraju et al, 1992) and expensive for small scale farmers as well as highly toxic to humans and animals (Sharma, 1998;Asante et al, 2001). Farmers who have adopted control through chemical sprays are exposed to serious health hazards (Damalas & Eleftherohorinos, 2011).…”

Screening of Pigeonpea Genotypes against Webbing Caterpillar, Maruca vitrata Geyer and Gram Pod Borer, Helicoverpa armigera Hubner

“…M. vitrata larvae feed by remaining inside the webbed mass of leaves, flowers and pods. This concealed feeding complicates the management of this pest as pesticides and natural enemies have difficulty in penetrating the shelter to reach the larvae (Sharma, 1998).…”