Components for the management of two insect pests of pearl millet in Sahelian West Africa

Pearl millet, Pennisetum glaucum (L.) R. Br. is attacked by over 100 species of insect pests, but only a few of these are of economic importance. The two major ones, the millet stem borer, Coniesta ignefusalis Hampson and the earhead caterpillar Heliocheilus albipunctella de Joannis have been the subject of research in the Sahel during the last decade. The various methods that have been suggested for the control of these species are briefly discussed. Generally, the control strategy adopted by farmers involves the use of cultural operations that will reduce insect damage. There are no control measures that have been developed for farmers. The more scientific methods that have been suggested are the results from research trials and experiments. These have several limitations. Future perspectives and considerations for developing sound and practical farmer-oriented practices are discussed