Detection of insect-pests in indigenous germplasm

Abstract

A total of 10 499 indigenous seed samples of various crops from different eco-geographical regions of the country were processed for detection/identification of associated pests during 2000–05. All the samples were examined visually and/or under higher magnification. Of these, 3,714 samples were exposed to X-ray radiography to detect hidden infestation. A total of 2,757 samples including 1,332 with hidden infestation were found infested. Of these, 2,134 were salvaged mechanically or through X-ray radiography. A total of 30 insect species belonging to orders Coleoptera (27), Hymenoptera (2) and Lepidoptera (1) were found associated with seed samples. Many of these have been repeatedly detected on different hosts from different geographical regions. The significance of the important pests detected is discussed.