Vol. 7, Issue 4, Part C (2025)

The present study was conducted to survey the major insect fauna infesting tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) in five villages (Partalai, Ranipura, Badi, Dibbi, and Chopan Badiya) of Raisen district, Madhya Pradesh, during Rabi seasons of 2022-23 and 2023-24. A survey was conducted to identify the major insect fauna associated with tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) crops in different villages of Raisen District, Madhya Pradesh. The study aimed to document the diversity and abundance of both harmful and beneficial insects affecting tomato cultivation. Various insect species were recorded, including key pests that pose significant threats to crop yield, as well as natural predators and pollinators that contribute to pest control and pollination. This baseline information can help in devising region-specific integrated pest management (IPM) strategies for sustainable tomato production. The objective was to monitor insect pests and beneficial insects under field conditions across different locations. Fifty randomly selected plants per field were observed to document the insect fauna and their natural enemies. Results revealed that whitefly (Bemisia tabaci) was the predominant pest across all locations, with peak infestations observed in Ranipura and Chopan Badiya. Aphids (Aphis gossypii) followed a similar trend, reaching peak populations in January. Jassids (Amrasca devastans) were present at all sites, with higher incidences in Badi and Chopan Badiya. Thrips (Thrips tabaci) were abundant in Ranipura and Badi during December but showed a declining trend in January. Leafminer (Liriomyza trifolii) and pinworm (Keiferia lycopersicella) infestations were moderate, with higher occurrences in Partalai and Chopan Badiya. Fruit borer (Helicoverpa armigera) was sporadic, with low to moderate infestations primarily in Badi and Chopan Badiya. Beneficial insects included ladybird beetles (Coccinella septempunctata), mealy bugs (Pseudococcus viburni), and Campoletis chlorideae parasitoids. Ladybird beetles were prevalent in Dibbi, while mealy bugs and C. chlorideae were recorded in minor numbers, mainly in Dibbi and Chopan Badiya. Integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, incorporating biological control and targeted pesticide applications, are recommended to mitigate pest infestations and conserve beneficial insect populations. Regular monitoring and timely intervention can further reduce pest outbreaks and enhance tomato productivity in these regions.