Evaluation of some plant materials as organic mulch for the control of yam tuber beetles (Heteroligus spp) In Delta State, Nigeria

摘要

Investigations were carried out in the rainforest ecological zones of Anwai and Ugbolu in Upper Niger Delta to evaluate ten plant materials as organic mulch for the control of yam tuber beetles in 2004/2005 cropping seasons. Field experiments were laid out in randomized complete block design (RBCD) and replicated three times. Results indicated that the ten plants materials applied at 20 tons per hectare caused varied differences in the feeding activities of the beetle. Across locations and planting seasons, Cymbopogun citrates L. and Ocimum viride L. were superior as repellant or antifeedant botanicals to the beetle than others evaluated. Plots with these treatments had significantly higher (p<0.05) tuber yields and less beetle damages but none caused beetle mortality.