Effects of light trap and lunar cycle on the insects of Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) ecosystem*

Abstract

A study was conducted during 2 cotton (Gossypium Hirsutum L.)seasons during 2002 and 2003 to know the range of insects attracted to light trap as well as the effect of moon light on the efficacy of light trap. It was observed that about 37.24 % of total insects trapped in light trap consisted of bollworms. The beneficial insects, such as Chrysoperla carnea (Stephens) (0.05 %), wasp ( 1 .S 1 %) and honey bees (3.19 %) were also attracted into the light trap. The number of each bollworm trapped during full moon week was around 2-2.6 times less than that of corresponding trap catch during the new moon week.