Evaluating sunn hemp as a dead-end trap crop for sustainable management of the legume pod borer (Lepidoptera: Crambidae)

Abstract The legume pod borer, Maruca vitrata (F.) poses a significant threat to leguminous crops, necessitating sustainable management approaches to mitigate damage and maintain productivity. This study evaluated sunn hemp, Crotalaria juncea (L.) (Fabaceae), as a potential dead-end trap crop for managing M. vitrata infestations in cowpea, Vigna unguiculata subsp. sesquipedalis (L.) (Fabaceae), and lablab bean, Lablab purpureus (L.) (Fabaceae). Laboratory oviposition assays indicated that sunn hemp was significantly less preferred than cowpea in dual-choice conditions, whereas no significant preference