Behavioral response of cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) against the infestation of different sucking insect pests in Southern Punjab, Pakistan

The present study was accomplished with aim to identify changes in cotton sucking pest population during different seasons in Southern Punjab, Pakistan. The study spanned three years (2014-2016) beginning from cotton sowing to harvesting season each year. Three species of sucking pests were under observation namely Jassid (Amrasca biguttula), dusky bug (Oxycarenus laetus), and thrips (Thrips tabaci). Their common predators were also noted like Geocoris, Chrysoperla and Argiope. Population of adults and counts of eggs of pests and predators were recorded. Cotton behaves variably against these pest populations during the study. Significant infestation was observed on Non Bt as compared to Bt variety. One-way analysis of variance was performed to analyze the data. The adults of Amrasca biguttula, Oxycarenus laetus and Thrips tabaci varied across the years, variety and seasons. Among the predators Geocoris and Argiope population varied due to these factors throughout the study period except Chrysoperla. No significant difference was observed in the total number of eggs of different sucking pests yearly, on varieties and different months at experimental site.