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Title: Understanding Citrus Growers Views on Protection Problems and Mitigation Strategies in Punjab, Pakistan
Authors: Muhammad Asad Khan, Muhammad Shahzad, Moula Bux Peerzado, Ayesha Riaz, Umair Ali, Muhammad Usman
Journal: Journal of Agriculture and Veterinary Science
Publisher: Zoo Botanica (SMC Pvt.) Ltd.
Country: Pakistan
Year: 2024
Volume: 3
Issue: 3
Language: English
DOI: 10.55627/agrivet.003.03.0824
Keywords: Major DiseasesMajor InsectsCitrus ProtectionCitrus VarietiesMitigation Strategies
Increasing population pressure necessitates greater food production for a sustainable future, yet the prevalence of insect pests and diseases intensifies competition for critical resources. Pakistan has recorded substantial losses due to disease infestations, particularly affecting citrus crops. Citrus fruits are among the most widely cultivated and economically important agricultural commodities globally. However, s. However, various pests, diseases, and environmental factors significantly impact the production and quality of citrus fruits. This study aims to comprehensively analyze the major insects, diseases, and other factors that affect the protection of citrus crops, as well as the strategies that growers employ to mitigate these challenges. Therefore, the present study explored the major diseases, insects, and other factors affecting citrus protection. One hundred fifty respondents were selected using a Multistage random sampling technique under a survey-based research design. Findings indicate that most of the respondents were above the age of 40, and a significant portion of the population has education above the matriculation level. Citrus fruit fly, citrus leaf miner and psylla were the major insects affecting citrus protection. Citrus white fly, citrus caterpillar, citrus red scale, and citrus black fly also harm the citrus orchards. Findings also indicate that the major diseases affecting citrus protection were Citrus Canker, Gummosis, Citrus Melanose and Citrus Scab. Moreover, the study revealed that awareness about advanced protection practices, incomplete knowledge regarding the identification of insects and diseases, high cost of chemicals, poor quality of pesticides and unwise application of spraying were the major factors affecting citrus protection. This study also identifies that the coping strategies adopted by the growers to protect citrus were IPM practices, chemical control, biological control, insect control nets, use of resistant varieties, crop rotation and crop insurance.
To comprehensively analyze the major insects, diseases, and other factors affecting the protection of citrus crops, as well as the strategies that growers employ to mitigate these challenges in Punjab, Pakistan.
A survey-based research design was employed using a multistage random sampling technique. Data was collected from 150 citrus growers in Tehsil Mankera of District Bhakkar, South Punjab, Pakistan, using a structured interview schedule with a 5-point Likert scale. Data was analyzed using SPSS with descriptive statistical methods including frequencies, percentages, mean, and standard deviation.
graph TD;
A[Survey Design & Sampling] --> B[Data Collection via Interview Schedule];
B --> C[Data Analysis using SPSS];
C --> D[Identify Pests, Diseases, Constraints, and Strategies];
D --> E[Formulate Conclusions and Recommendations];
The study highlights significant challenges faced by citrus growers in Punjab, Pakistan, including pest and disease infestations, lack of knowledge regarding advanced protection practices, and economic barriers such as the high cost and poor quality of pesticides. The findings suggest a need for enhanced extension services, training programs, and the promotion of more sustainable and cost-effective mitigation strategies like IPM and biological control. The demographic profile of the growers indicates an experienced farming community, but one that requires updated knowledge and support to improve citrus protection.
- Major insects affecting citrus protection include Citrus fruit fly, Citrus leaf miner, and Psylla.
- Major diseases affecting citrus protection are Citrus Canker, Gummosis, Citrus Melanose, and Citrus Scab.
- Key protection problems identified are lack of awareness about advanced protection practices, incomplete knowledge of insect/disease identification, high cost of chemicals, and poor quality of pesticides.
- Commonly adopted mitigation strategies include IPM practices, chemical control, and cultural control.
- The majority of respondents were above 40 years old, with a significant portion having education above the matriculation level.
Citrus growers in Punjab, Pakistan, face substantial challenges from pests and diseases, compounded by issues related to knowledge gaps and resource constraints. The adoption of integrated pest management (IPM) practices, chemical control, and cultural methods are the primary coping strategies. There is a critical need for improved technical skills through comprehensive training, access to affordable and high-quality inputs, and the promotion of biological control methods to enhance citrus protection and ensure the sustainability of the industry.
- The study surveyed 150 respondents.
- Citrus fruit fly was ranked as the most prominent pest with a mean value of 4.91.
- Citrus Canker was ranked as the most severe disease with a mean severity of 4.83.
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