Evaluation of insect pest infestation and yield losses in maize crop in Maina, district Malakand

Maize (Zea mays) is the third most significant cereal crop in Pakistan. It plays a crucial role in the local diet and serves as a vital component in livestock fodder and poultry feed. Moreover, it has gained commercial importance in the food industry, contributing to the production of items such as corn oil, cornflakes, popcorn, and Rafhan. Its yield is severely affected by insect pests. Therefore, this study investigated the insect pest infestation and associated yield losses in maize crops in Maina, District Malakand. The experiment recorded the percentage of plant infestation by insect pests and quantified the resultant losses. Maize stem borer (Chilo partelus) exhibited a significant infestation of 23.50 %, followed by maize aphid (Rhopalosiphum maidis) at 15 % during the tasseling stage. Shootfly (Atherigona soccata) showed early-stage infestation with 9 %, and maize jassid (Zygenia sp) appeared with a population of 2 jassids/sweep net. Armyworm (Mythimna unipuncta) was also identified as a pest with 7.1 % plant infestation. The cumulative grain losses due to these pests were calculated as 1112 kg/ha. Maize cultivation in Pakistan holds significant economic importance, contributing to various sectors, and sustaining local diets. In this context, effective pest management strategies are crucial for optimizing maize yields. The study provides valuable insights into the dynamics of insect pest infestation and emphasizes the need for proactive measures to mitigate yield losses in maize cultivation. © 2018 The Author(s)