Environment & Ecosystem Science (EES)

The effects of climate change, including extreme weather conditions characterized by rising atmospheric CO2 levels, alterations in precipitation patterns, and elevated temperatures, significantly impact crop production and the prevalence of agricultural pests. This study aimed to unravel the nuanced responses of various insect pests to these dynamic climatic shifts by conducting an experiment within the agronomy field at BSMRAU. The objective was to investigate the incidence of insect pests on mungbean plants under varying temperature and CO2 level conditions. To achieve this, four open top chambers (OTCs) were deployed, each featuring distinct CO2 concentrations, OTC-1 (400 ppm), OTC-2 (450 ppm), OTC-3 (500 ppm), and OTC-4 (550 ppm). Additionally, electronic thermo-hygrometers were strategically placed within these chambers to monitor the relevant environmental parameters. The results of this comprehensive study unveiled the presence of five distinct insect species that were observed infesting mungbean crops. These included aphids, ladybird beetles, whiteflies, bean pod borers, and caterpillars. The findings provided valuable insights into the intricate interplay between CO2 levels, temperature, and the incidence of these insect pests. Notably, it was found that an atmospheric CO2 concentration of 550 ppm created an optimal environment for aphid infestations, with an ideal temperature range between 32-34°C. In contrast, a concentration CO2 of 450 ppm was identified as most conducive to the other five insect species. Bean pod borers, in particular, demonstrated a preference for temperatures ranging from 30.1-32.9°C, while the impact of temperature variations on the remaining insect species was deemed statistically insignificant. These findings shed light on the complex relationships between rising CO2 levels, temperature fluctuations, and insect pest dynamics within the context of mungbean cultivation. The knowledge gained from this research is indispensable for the development of effective strategies to manage and mitigate pest outbreaks in a rapidly changing climate, thereby safeguarding crop yields and ensuring food security. This study advances our comprehension of the intricate ecological interactions within agricultural ecosystems, offering a foundation for more informed decision-making in the face of ongoing climate change challenges.