A REVIEW ON HOST PREFERENCE, DAMAGE SEVERITY AND INTEGRATED PEST MANAGEMENT OF RED PUMPKIN BEETLE

Cucurbitaceous vegetables are the major source of income for small holding farmers in Nepal. However, production potential of this vegetable is hindered by many pests like red pumpkin beetle, fruit fly, cucurbit stink bug, cucumber thrips, cutworms etc. Red pumpkin beetle (RPB) has been a significant concern in cucurbit production, damaging from germination up to harvesting. This paper analyses host preference shown by RPB among different cucurbits along with severity of damage. Moreover, this paper shows heavier application of insecticides to control RPB which has adverse effect on human health and agro-ecosystem. In order to reduce such haphazard application of insecticides, other control techniques need to be formulated and familiarize with farmers. Integrated pest management (IPM) is the best option that provides several measures, alternative to insecticide and facilitates sustainable environment management. Result shows different eco-friendly techniques practiced by farmers. In addition, it elicits appropriate integration of such techniques in a research station that are applicable to farmer’s field.