Infestation and developmental stages of Callosobruchus chinensis on chickpea variety IPC 4-98

This study examined the biology and development of the pest Callosobruchus chinensis on the chickpea variety IPC 4-98 at the School of Entomology, Department of Zoology, St. John's College, Agra. The pulse beetle, Callosobruchus chinensis, is a major pest affecting stored legumes, especially chickpeas (Cicer arietinum), chickpea is one of the most popular and widely grown crops high in protein. This study explores the infestation and developmental stages of C. chinensis in Chickpea variety IPC 4-98. To study biology, the mother culture of the insect was multiplied in the laboratory. The experiment was conducted in triplet; 2 pairs of adults with 20 seeds kept in a container and observed with the help of a magnifying lens and stereoscope. The incubation period of C. chinensis was 4.5 to 5 days, and the larval period was 12 to 17 days. The pupal period was observed from 5 to 8 days. The oviposition period lasted 3 to 7 days. The entire developmental period was from 21.5 to 30 days. The total number of average eggs laid by a female was 77.6 and the hatchability rate was 28.73%. The destruction caused a 9% loss in the weight of seeds, which demonstrates the destructive capability of this pest. Adults survived for only 7 to 9 days in males and 8 to 12 days in females. These findings highlight the pest's destructive capacity and the need for integrated pest management solutions.