Comparative study of various botanical and chemical pesticides against red pumpkin beetle (Aulacophora foveicollis) in summer squash at Bhojpur, Nepal

The red pumpkin beetle (Aulacophora foveicollis) is an invasive pest of summer squash (Cucurbita pepo) that damages seedlings, skeletonize leaves and flower buds, ultimately reducing yield. This study, conducted in Bhojpur, Nepal, examined the effectiveness of selected pesticides for the control of Red Pumpkin Beetle (RPB). A Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) was used with seven treatments; each replicated three times. It assessed the effectiveness of Deltamethrin, Profenofos, Malathion, Emmamectin benzoate, Neem oil, Tobacco extract, and water spray. Data on beetle population and leaf damage severity were collected before spray and at 1, 3, 6, and 10 days after spray (DAS), then analyzed using ANOVA and DMRT. Results indicated that Deltamethrin emerged as the most effective, reducing beetle population to 0.71 beetles/plant and leaf damage to 9.46%. Profenofos demonstrated similar efficacy with 0.90 beetles/plant and 13.06% damage. Malathion and Emmamectin benzoate were moderately effective, while Neem oil and Tobacco extract were least effective but better than water spray, which recorded 3.96 beetles/plant and 48.91% damage. All pesticides reduced beetle populations compared to control, but Deltamethrin and Profenofos were most effective and statistically similar. These findings emphasize the importance of selecting appropriate pesticides and applying correct dosages for effective management of Red Pumpkin Beetle.