Pink boll worm effect in recent year on cotton crops overall.
Presently it has been observed in village in Mansa district of Punjab(India) has sown cotton on about five acres of land previous year (2022). Resulting Pink bollworm can inflict locule damage to the extent of 55% and can reduces seed cotton yield by up to 90%. Pink bollworms damage squares and bolls, the damage to bolls being the most serious. Larvae burrow into bolls, through the lint, to feed on seeds. As the larva burrows within a boll, lint is cut and stained, resulting in severe quality loss. Pink bollworm causes failure of buds to open, boll shedding, lint damage and seed loss.
The pink bollworm (Pectinophora gossypiella) is a major pest affecting cotton crops. Its impact can be devastating as it feeds on cotton bolls, reducing yield and quality. Over the years, the pink bollworm has developed resistance to certain insecticides, leading to increased control challenges for farmers.
Consequences of the pink bollworm infestation on cotton crops include:
1. Yield Loss: Infestation by pink bollworms can lead to a significant reduction in cotton yield, affecting farmers' incomes and overall production.
2. Quality Reduction: Damage caused by the pink bollworm can affect the quality of cotton fibers, making them less desirable for textile production.
3. Increased Costs: Farmers may incur higher costs due to the need for increased pest control measures, such as using more insecticides or resorting to alternative control methods.
4. Environmental Impact: Excessive use of insecticides to control the pink bollworm can have negative environmental effects and potentially harm non-target organisms.
Efforts to manage pink bollworm infestations often involve integrated pest management strategies, such as planting genetically modified (GM) cotton varieties with built-in resistance to the pest, adopting cultural practices, and implementing biocontrol methods to mitigate its impact on cotton crops.
- Badges
- Science method