Field selection for resistance in cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L) Walp.) to major insect pests

Fifty five exotic and indigenous accessions of fodder cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp.) were evaluated for relative tolerance to flea beetles (Pagaria signata Motsch), semilooper (Plusia nigrisigna Wlk.) and grasshopper (Hieroglyphus nigrorepletus Bol.). The mean infestations of flea beetle, semilooper and grasshopper ranged from 1.13 to 21.26 per cent, 1.46 to 19.13 per cent and 2.53 to 11.46 percent respectively. Accessions JPM/2A-39, FCO919, CS-88, IPO4/70, HS 46-1 and H-5-3-2 were identified as multiple resistant donors and can be incorporated into the improved varieties of cowpea for resistant breeding programme.