The Effect of Intercropping Maize and Cowpeas on Insect Pest Population

Abstract

Higher numbers of jassids (Empoasca spp.) and whiteflies were recorded m sole cropped cowpeas than in cowpeas intercropped with maize. There were no differences in numbers of pod sucking bugs (Nezara viridula, Anoplocnemis curvipes and Riptortus dentipes) and foliage beetles (Ootheca mutabilis) between sole cowpeas and cowpeas in two different intercroppmg systems. The numbers of these pests were, however, significantly lower in sole maize plots. Some of the reasons why insect pests are lower in intercropping systems are discussed.