Agrotechnical methods for regulating the population of beneficial and harmful entomofauna in pea crops
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31210/spi2025.28.04.14Keywords:
pests, beneficial entomophages, crop rotation, biological control, ecological balance, integrated pest management systemsAbstract
Pea is an important leguminous crop in Ukraine, providing atmospheric nitrogen fixation and high nutritional value; however, its cultivation is associated with significant losses due to pests. The purpose of the work was to review agrotechnical methods for regulating the population of beneficial and harmful entomofauna in pea crops, with an emphasis on biological control through the use of natural enemies. The paper analyzes the main pea pests and their natural enemies: root weevils are controlled by rove beetles, trichogramma, and ladybugs; pea weevils are controlled by trichogramma, ladybugs, and predatory bugs; pea aphids are controlled by rove beetles, ladybugs, and tachinid flies. It has been established that the most effective approach for pest control in pea crops is an integrated protection system that combines biological control with agrotechnical methods. The key agrotechnical methods identified include proper crop rotation, alternating legumes with cruciferous or cereal crops to reduce pest cycles; optimization of sowing and harvesting dates to avoid periods of peak pest activity; creation of favorable conditions for the development of entomophages by ensuring natural shelters and food plants; and the selective use of chemical agents with a narrow spectrum of action only in critical situations. The prospects for further development of agrotechnical methods are substantiated, including the implementation of modern biological control methods, the development of new Trichogramma strains to enhance the effectiveness of controlling weevils and aphids, the improvement of crop rotation methods based on pest biology, and the development of integrated pest management systems with pest population monitoring and evaluation of biological control effectiveness. The findings of the study have significant practical importance for the development of ecologically safe agriculture, as they contribute to reducing dependence on chemical pesticides and ensuring the sustainable development of Ukraine's agricultural sector during post-war recovery.
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