Seed trait influence on Callosobruchus maculatus behaviour and performance in legume hosts

Principal component analysis identified two major axes of host discrimination: (i) physical traits governing oviposition preference and (ii) biochemical composition determining larval development. Seeds with greater surface area, thinner seed coats, and moderate sphericity were favoured for egg deposition, whereas high protein and carbohydrate content enhanced larval growth. In contrast, anti-nutritional factors such as tannins and phytic acid negatively affected larval performance. These findings underscore the significance of integrating physico-biochemical resistance traits into legume breeding and storage management strategies to reduce bruchid-related post-harvest losses.