Evaluating the efficacy of UV-b and UV-c light traps for non-chemical pest control in greenhouse-grown pea plants (Pisum sativum)

Pisum sativum (pea) is a nutritionally valuable legume widely cultivated in greenhouse systems. However, its productivity is often compromised by insect pests such as aphids (Aphididae) and whiteflies (Aleyrodidae). Conventional chemical pesticides, though effective, pose risks including environmental contamination, human health hazards, and the development of pest resistance. In pursuit of sustainable, non-chemical pest control strategies, this study investigates the effectiveness of ultraviolet (UV) light traps specifically UV-B and UV-C wavelengths in managing pest populations in greenhouse-grown pea plants. Fifteen potted P. sativum plants were divided into three experimental groups: Group 1 exposed to UV-B light, Group 2 to UV-C light, and Group 3 serving as the untreated control. Over a three-month period, weekly pest counts were conducted across the upper, middle, and lower canopy layers. Results revealed a statistically significant reduction in aphid and whitefly densities, particularly in the upper and middle canopy layers of UV-treated groups, compared to the control. These findings suggest that wavelength-specific UV light traps offer a promising alternative to chemical pesticides for integrated pest management (IPM) in protected horticultural environments.