An Assessment of Pest Damage on Grain Sorghum in Botswana

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Abstract
SUMMARY: In trials conducted over five years, data on pest (insect, disease, bird) attack and yield of sorghum cultivar 65D were accumulated. A modified analytical method of damage assessment is described, which includes consideration of all pest occurrences and different levels and timing of pest attack. There was a positive correlation between crop yield and rainfall. The selective infestation of stronger plants, or the ability of those plants to support pest populations, is shown; thus, in most cases, yield reductions are masked. The importance of the tillering habit of 65D on yield, and its ability to compensate for pest damage by further tillering, are shown. A cultivar which does not normally tiller was tested in the final year. Effects on yield of all the pests encountered in the five years are discussed.

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