Bhangura (Pabna) Correspondent :
The use of light traps has become popular in the detection of Boro rice-eating insects in Bhanguraupazila of Pabna. In this method harmful insects can be identified as well as beneficial insects. At the same time, it is convenient to take necessary steps to suppress harmful insects and save beneficial insects, according to agriculturists. As a result, the use of pesticides can also be assured there. Upazila farmers are taking great interest in this agro-friendly method.
Zahidul Islam, a farmer of Satbaria village of Khanmarich union of the upazila, said that pesticides have been applied only where harmful insects have been found in the paddy fields through the use of light traps. As a result, there was no need to apply pesticides in all the fields unnecessarily. This avoids both additional costs and side effects.
It is known that Boro paddy has been planted on 7 thousand 50 hectares of land in Bhanguraupazila this year. Light trap technology has already been installed in 16 blocks. Agricultural extension officers said that the light trapping program will continue in the fields till the paddy ripens.
Upazila Agriculture Officer SharminJahan said, the presence of insects in light traps is well understood. Because of this, it is easy to take effective measures to control harmful insects like brown gasfaringhopper and steam borer.