Research on Heliothis at ICRISAT

Abstract

ThelnternetlonalCropsResearchlnstitute tor the Semi-Arid Tropics(lCR1SATj hes a mandate to Improve the production 01 sorghum, pearl millet, groundnut, pigeonpea, and chlckpea. All of these cmps are susceptible to Heliothis spp. and survey data show that bth plgeonpea and chickpea sutler crop loss to these pests In almost all the areas of the world where they an gmwn. The recent pmgress in research on various aspects of the ecology and management ot Heliothis srmigera at the ICFllSAT Center In India Is reviewed: population studies using light and pheromone traps; pesticide use; natural control elements, including parasites, predators,
\nand diseases, cultural end cropping practices, Including mono- and inter-crop comparisons;
\nand host-plant resistance screening and breeding, including mechanisms of resistance. The
\npotential tor the development of Integrated pest management that will be of prectical benefit
\nin farmers' fields Is also discussed.