Biology of Callosobruchus chinensis during infestation in two varieties of Arhar under laboratory conditions

Abstract

Callosobruchus chinensis, is a destructive pest of large variety of pulse grains like arhar, gram moong and kabuli chana. Pulses are important source of dietary protein for vegetarian. These are also good sources of minerals. The pest causes damage to these store grain in large amount. The infestation may start from field .The growth and development of pest includes eggs, larva, pupa and adult. The total development period varies slightly during different months of the year. The size of grain also affects the number of eggs laid by the female. Present work has been done to observe the biology of the pulse beetle Different stages of life cycle of pulse beetle was observed under the high magnification of dissecting microscope. Developmental period was recorded of different duration for two varieties of same pulse. The development takes place inside the grain. Intermediate stages of development was not apparent externally