Search

Host plant resistance is one of the most economic and environment friendly method for pest management and, therefore, the present study was undertaken on induction of resistance against Helicoverpa armigera in three groundnut genotypes (ICGV 86699-resistant, NCAc 343-resistant, and TMV 2-susceptible). Observations were recorded on oxidative enzymes [peroxidase (POD) and polyphenol oxidase (PPO)], and on the amounts of other defensive components such as total phenols, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), malondialdehyde (MDA), and proteins after 24, 48, 72, and 96 h following H. armigera infestation to understand the induced defense to H. armigera. Data were also recorded on leaf damage, larval survival, and larval weights. Increase in activities of POD and PPO and in the amounts of total phenols, H2O2, MDA, and proteins were observed in insect damaged plants as compared to uninfested control plants. In general, the induction was greater in the insect resistant genotypes than in the susceptible one. Leaf damage, larval survival, and larval weight were lower in resistant genotypes as compared to susceptible genotype. Therefore, induced resistance could be exploited in plant defense against insect pests for integrated pest management. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]