A Laboratory experiment on the efficacy of neem extracts in controlling antestia bug (Antestiopsis Spp) in coffee

Author

Mushonga, Moses

Title

A Laboratory experiment on the efficacy of neem extracts in controlling antestia bug (Antestiopsis Spp) in coffee

Abstract

The Antestia bug (Antestiopsis spp.) is a major pest that can inflict significant damage to coffee berries, leading to quality and yield losses for coffee producers. The use of synthetic insecticides to control this pest has raised concerns about environmental and health implications, prompting the exploration of alternative, more sustainable approaches. Neem (Azadirachta indica) and its derivatives have been identified as potential biocontrol agents against the Antestia bug due to their demonstrated insecticidal properties.This laboratory study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of a neem-based formulation in protecting coffee berries from Antestia bug infestation and damage.The experiment was conducted using a completely randomized design with six treatments (four neem, one control and one standard) and five replicates. Coffee berries were artificially infested with Antestia bugs and then treated with varying concentrations of a neem-based insecticide. Control treatments included an untreated control and a synthetic insecticide(Thunder) commonly used for Antestia bug management.The results showed that the neem-based insecticide reduced the number of Antestia bugs present on the coffee berries, with the highest concentration tested achieving a 40% reduction in bug population compared to the untreated control. Moreover, the neem treatment substantially decreased the level of feeding damage and berry drop caused by the Antestia bugs.These findings suggest that neem-based insecticides have the potential to be an effective and environmentally-friendly alternative for protecting coffee berries from Antestia bug infestation and damage. The results provide valuable insights for the development of integrated pest management strategies that incorporate neem-based approaches to mitigate the impact of this persistent coffee pest.

Date

2024

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Neem extracts

Antestia Bug

Coffee production

Pest control

Supervisor

Professor R. Mandaumbu