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Agriculture for Secondary Schools

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Figure 5.3 (e): Adult whitefly and infested bean leaves

Bean bruchid: Bean bruchid, also called bean weevil, is a major storage pest
of common beans and other pulses. Adult bruchids lay eggs on bean pods or dry
beans. Their larvae bore into dry beans and destroy the seeds. Early harvesting
prevents heavy field infestation by the pest. Dry beans can be stored in hermetic
bags and sealed containers to avoid attack. Ash or plant-based products, for
example, neem, can be applied in storage facilities. Otherwise, storage insecticides
can also be used for management of the pest. Figure 5.3 (f) shows an adult bean
bruchid and damaged beans.

Figure 5.3 (f): Adult bean bruchid and damaged beans

Common diseases in common beans and their management
Diseases also cause a serious loss in bean production. Most of the common bean
diseases are caused by fungi, viruses or other microorganisms due to poor field
conditions. Diseases can affect leaves, stems or roots and lower the yield or kill
the plant. Knowing the symptoms of the disease and its management helps to

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