Evaluation of Comparative Resistance in Elite Sesame Germplasm Against Its Insect Pest Complex

Sesame crop is becoming very important due its export potential in Pakistan. Its oil is very important nutritional source as it contains 25% protein and 50% oil. It is a vital source of anti oxidants. In this study we evaluated ten sesame lines for their susceptibility to whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Homoptera: Aleyrodidae), Sesame capsule borer Antigastra catanalanis Duponchel (Crambidae: Lepidoptera) and mirid bug Nesidiocoris tenuis (Miridae: Hemiptera) under field conditions. The crop was sown in Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) design with three replications for two consecutive years 2023-24 in June. Data was recorded fortnightly and averaged at the end of the crop season for statistical analysis. Results indicated that sesame germplasm has shown resistance to the insect pests. Minimum whitefly population was recorded on 19002 (1.63) sesame line as compared to check variety. Minimum mirid bugs population was recorded on 21005 (5.02) sesame line as compared to check variety. Least pod borer damage was recorded on 19002 (8.53%) sesame line. The results suggested that these sesame lines can be used in further breeding programs or these can be approved as new resistant cultivars. This would reduce insecticidal sprays on the crop as a result insecticide residue problem will be minimized which will be very beneficial to the environment.