Seed storage proteins and seed coat compounds additively influence <scp><i>Callosobruchus maculatus</i></scp> Fab. tolerance in selected cowpea (<scp><i>Vigna unguiculata</i></scp> L. Walp.) varieties

The cowpea weevil, Callosobruchus maculatus, is a major threat to stable production, especially in storage, and has been reported facilitate postharvest losses grains. Host resistance suggested as the best control method but with conflicting knowledge on source of resistance. Hence, study seeks evaluate seed storage proteins (SSPs) coat compounds (SCCs) associated tolerance C. maculatus. SSPs SCCs were assayed maculatus 19 varieties varied levels using stepwise multiple regression analysis. Top tolerants TVu-2027, TVu-11952, TVu-11953, TVu-145. protein fraction mass 51 kDa was significant predictor percentage adult insect emergence (PAE) host suitability index (H.S.I.), 57 71 mean development period (MDP) whereas 59 131 damage (TolSD). Several identified tolerant measures used study. However, Thiazole, tetrahydro- Undecane consistently tolerance. Higher phenotypic variability accounted for by SCC than SSP fractions indicating that contributed more identified. These can be incorporated into breeding biopesticide formulations high or amount these also recommended farmers producers.