Developing and implementing insecticide resistance management practices in cotton ICM programmes in India

摘要

Pyrethroid, organophosphate, carbamate and cyclodiene resistance levels for the cotton bollworm (Helicoverpa armigera) have been monitored routinely at sites throughout India since 1993 using discriminating dose assays. Resistance by H. armigera andother pests to commonly used insecticides is a severe constraint to cotton production in India. An integrated crop management strategy was developed aimed at maximising profit while minimising insecticide use and the impact of insecticide resistance. Appropriate varieties and agronomy, plus seed treatment where necessary, allow the first foliar insecticides to be delayed until at least 70 days from planting. Insecticides for fruit and leaf feeders are then rotated, taking account of seasonal shifts intheir efficacy and the pest spectrum faced; with endosulfan first, followed by particular organophosphates, leaving one to two pyrethroid sprays until the late season when pink bollworm is also present. This system (customised for the different regions of India) was demonstrated in village participatory trials, reaching 24 villages across four states in 1998-9. In all areas the quantity of insecticide a.i. used was reduced by >29 percent; yields increased substantially and net profit rose 40 dollar to 226 dollar/ha when compared with farmers not in the schemes.