Impact of Plant Growth-promoting Rhizobacteria on the Incidence of Aphids (Aphis gossypii) in Okra

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus L. Moench) is a widely cultivated vegetable in Asia, facing ongoing challenges from aphids (Aphis gossypii Glover). A field study was conducted on a microplot in Kasilingapuram, Karungulam block, Thoothukudi district, during the Rabi season of 2020 and the Summer of 2021. Various plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPRs) were applied to the hybrid COBh 4 okra cultivars through soil, seed, and foliar treatments, and their impact on aphid populations was assessed. The findings revealed a significant reduction in aphid numbers and enhanced production of defensive compounds and enzymes in plants treated with Bacillus subtilis Bbv57 during both the seasons. These results suggest that incorporating PGPRs could be an effective strategy for managing aphid populations by boosting up the biochemical compounds in okra cultivation and can be incorporated in IPM practices.