Effects of phosphate fertilizer levels on cowpea pod-sucking bug populations and damage

The effect of different application levels of phosphate fertilizer on cowpea pod-sucking bugs [Clavigralla sp., Riptortus sp., Anoplocnemis., Mirperus sp. and Negara sp. (Heteroptera)] was studied using 0 (control), 20, 40 and 60 kg/ha of single super-phosphate. The results showed that the bug densities decreased significantly with increase in rate of application. At 40 and 60 kg/ha, grain yields were significantly higher than at the lower rates of application. Crude protein, fibre, oxalate, phytin, potassium and magnesium contents as well as seed hardness also increased with increase in the rate of fertilizer application.