Evaluation of Insect Pest Diversity on Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) Farms in Cross River State, South South Nigeria

Okra (Abelmoschus esculentus) is a nutritionally important vegetable crop widely cultivated across the South South geopolitical zone of Nigeria, and insect pests constitute one of the most significant biotic constraints to its productivity. Identifying the diversity and abundance of insect pests is the first step toward developing effective integrated pest management strategies. This study evaluates the diversity of insect pests on okra farms in three local government areas of Cross River State during the 2023 growing season. Standard sweep net sampling and direct visual counting were used to collect pest data at weekly intervals from emergence to harvest. Pest species were identified using morphological keys and expert consultation. Species diversity was estimated using the Shannon diversity index. A total of 17 insect pest species were recorded, with aphids (Aphis gossypii), flea beetles (Podagrica spp.), and cotton stainers (Dysdercus spp.) identified as the dominant pests. Pest density was highest during the vegetative stage. Farms with intercropped legumes showed lower pest diversity and abundance compared to monoculture plots. The study recommends intercropping with cowpea as a low-cost cultural pest management strategy for okra farmers in Cross River State. These findings provide a valuable pest inventory baseline for integrated management planning in the region. Keywords: insect pests, okra, Abelmoschus esculentus, pest diversity, Cross River State