Response of American bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Hubner) feeding in relation to water status of cotton

Cotton is a major cash crop of Pakistan. Cotton crop is under threat of several insect pests and diseases. Bollworms in cotton cause approximately 30-40% of yield losses. Among bollworms, American bollworm, Helicoverpa armigera (Hub.) is a notorious pest causing qualitative and quantitative loss in cotton. The present study was aimed to study the feeding performance of American bollworm in relation to water status of cotton cultivars. The water levels (low, high) were maintained and tested for different cotton cultivars planted in pots. Data were recorded for the amount of leaf area consumed for each cotton cultivar. The results of this study will be helpful for designing appropriate management tactics for American bollworm.