Characterization of wheat (Triticum aestivum) plant infested by and identification of the African black beetle Heteronychus arator (Fabricius, 1775), a pest attacking wheat in Cameroon

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In a study to investigate the growth and yield performance of wheat varieties, it was observed that some plants showed some leaf yellowing and overall stunted growth. Upon uprooting, some unidentified creamy white larvae were observed. A trial was later conducted to ascertain the extend of infestation by these larvae and eventually identify them using morphological measurements and pictorial comparisons. The study was conducted in the Research farm of the University of Bamenda, Cameroon in 2023. Results revealed that wheat plants infested by the weevil had many yellow leaves and dry old leaves. The roots were severely damaged and the plants did not produce spikes. The infested plants were easy to uproot. Larval and adult infestation rate were 35.0% and 12.5%, respectively. Larval and adult body length were 27.34 mm and 13.21 mm, respectively. The larva and adults were identified as the African Black Beetle ABB Heteronychus arator (Fabricius, 1775) (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae). Thus, the ABB is reported for the first time as a damaging pest of wheat in Cameroon. Morphological and pictorial identification of the ABB are supported by established keys. The current study ignites research need into management of ABB and its ecological interactions with biotic and abiotic factors.

Ce résumé expose les affirmations des auteurs. BNTIC ne l’interprète pas comme une validation indépendante des résultats.