Pests of crops and their control in the Maldives

Abstract

Every year insect and mite pests cause substantial damage to crops, ornamentals, fibre and livestock all over the world. The frequency of pest occurence depends on the presence of host plants, the level of natural control by predators, parasites and diseases, and the prevailing climatic conditions. In tropical countries th􀀅 warm, humid · climate favours the development and rapid multiplication of insect and mite pests. Successful pest control programmes must be based on a thorough knowledge and understanding of the biology of the pests and the damage they cause. The pests must firstly be correctly identified and the appropri􀀁 ate control measure(s) chosen while causing as little damage as possible to the host, environment and beneficial organisms. In the Maldives the use of predators and parasites together with improved cultural practices are preferred options for pest control in horti­cultural crops. Although chemicals may be required in some situations, there use needs to be restricted. The first section of this book gives a synopsis of the morphology, anatomy, development and classification of insects and mites. The second section describes briefly the morphology, ecology and distribution of each pest that may be found on a crop and the damage it causes. Control methods are mentioned for each individual pest.