Review Paper
INSIGHTS INTO ARTHROPOD PESTS OF Moringa oleifera: EMERGING THREATS AND MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES
M. Duvaraga Devi1, M. Muthuswami1, *, A. Suganthi1, C. Indu Rani2 and N. Manikanda Boopathi3
1Department of Agricultural Entomology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, 641003, Tamil Nadu, India
2Department of Vegetable Science, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, 641003, Tamil Nadu, India
3Department of Plant Biotechnology, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, 641003, Tamil Nadu, India
*Corresponding author’s E-mail: muthuswami.m@tnau.ac.in
ABSTRACT
Moringa, often revered as the "miracle tree," is witnessing a remarkable surge in global demand due to its exceptional nutritional contents and numerous health benefits. The increasing inclination towards natural and sustainable products has significantly enhanced its market appeal, positioning moringa as a highly lucrative crop for both farmers and businesses. Its hardy nature and ability to thrive in diverse climates and soil conditions make moringa an ideal crop for sustainable cultivation. However, its production is imperiled by various insect species. Among the Lepidopterans, the budworm (Noorda moringae) is known to cause flower bud drop, while the leaf-eating caterpillar (N. blitealis) is a major pest responsible for severe defoliation, and the hairy caterpillar (Eupterote mollifera) also poses a threat. Coleopterans, particularly the ash weevil (Myllocerus sp.), also contribute to the defoliation of moringa. Invasive Hemipteran pests, such as the tea mosquito bug (Helopeltis antonii) and the rugose spiraling whitefly (Aleurodicus rugioperculatus), have also been reported to attack moringa. Additionally, other pests like bark borers, aphids, mites, and scales have also been recorded. These pests can inflict substantial yield losses, thereby complicating management practices. The inadequate documentation of moringa insect pests poses a significant challenge in studying their biology, ecology, and management. This review provides a comprehensive insight into the potential insect pest communities affecting moringa, examines current control options, and identifies knowledge gaps. These gaps include insufficient understanding of the biology and ecology of important insect pests, their population dynamics, insecticides used for their management, and the need for fully compatible Integrated Pest Management packages for moringa.
Keywords: Moringa; Insect Pests; IPM; Natural enemies; Insecticides
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