Zygogramma Bicolorata: A Natural Biocontrol Agent Against Parthenium hysterophorus

Authors

  • Shivam Satyawan Madrewar Rajarshee Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj College of Agriculture
  • Apurva Srishty Indian Institute Of Management
  • Harshal Ramesh Bagul Indian Institute Of Management
  • Shubham Maroti Narwade National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management
  • Nikita Rani National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management
  • Nimisha Ravindra Khadkikar Rajarshee Chhatrapati Shahu Maharaj College of Agriculture

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.59890/ijsas.v2i7.2130

Keywords:

Parthenium Hysterophorus, Zygogramma Bicolorata, Biological Control, Invasive Weed Management, Agricultural Productivity

Abstract

Parthenium hysterophorus (Congress grass) is a significant weed problem in Indian agriculture, causing economic and ecological harm. This study evaluates the use of Zygogramma bicolorata (Mexican beetle) as a biological control method. Field trials were conducted over two years in Maharashtra, with beetles introduced to treatment plots and compared to control plots without beetles. Results showed an 80% reduction in Parthenium density, increased biodiversity (Shannon Index from 1.2 to 2.1), and a 12% boost in adjacent crop yields. Minimal impact on non-target species was observed. Farmers positively received this method for its ease and effectiveness. This study supports Zygogramma bicolorata as a sustainable, eco-friendly alternative to chemical herbicides for weed management.

References

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Published

2024-08-02

How to Cite

Shivam Satyawan Madrewar, Srishty, A., Harshal Ramesh Bagul, Shubham Maroti Narwade, Rani, N., & Nimisha Ravindra Khadkikar. (2024). Zygogramma Bicolorata: A Natural Biocontrol Agent Against Parthenium hysterophorus. International Journal of Sustainable Applied Sciences, 2(7), 721–730. https://doi.org/10.59890/ijsas.v2i7.2130

Issue

Vol. 2 No. 7 (2024): July 2024

Section

Articles

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Copyright (c) 2024 Shivam Satyawan Madrewar, Apurva Srishty, Harshal Ramesh Bagul, Shubham Maroti Narwade, Nikita Rani, Nimisha Ravindra Khadkikar

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This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.