Assessment of Incidence of Sesame Webworm Antigastra catalaunalis (Duponchel) in Western Tigray, North Ethiopia

Sesame (Sesamum indicum L.) is one of the important oil seed crops in Ethiopia. It is famous for international market and its production is challenged by inappropriate agronomic practices, insect pest infestation and weather uncertainties. Sesame webworm, Antigastra catalaunalis is a major pest in western Tigray. To assess the incidence and severity of A. catalaunalis, a survey was conducted in western zone of Tigray (Kafta Humera, Tsegede and Welkait) in 2015 cropping season starting from seedling up to capsule development stages. A total of 48 farm plots was assessed for prevalence, incidence and severity. All surveyed farm plots were infested at all stages of the crop. In the study area incidence of the pest was 66% and 15% capsule damage/severity. Capsule developmental stage of the crop was the most infested crop growth stage in the surveyed area and 100% incidence was also observed in late sown sesame (end of July). An increasing infestation trend of the pest was also observed as altitude is decreased. Therefore, A. catalaunalis is an economic pest in western zone of Tigray.