Abstract: The excessive reliance on synthetic pesticides in vegetable production has raised concerns regarding environmental pollution, pest
resistance, and food safety, thereby necessitating the evaluation of safer and sustainable pest management alternatives. This study investigated the
influence of selected biopesticides on pest incidence and yield performance of bell pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) in Owerri, Southeastern Nigeria.
Field experiments were conducted during the cropping season using a randomized complete block design with four treatments and three replications.
The treatments consisted of neem (Azadirachta indica) leaves extract, tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) leaves extract, Imidacloprid is a systemic
insecticide, and an untreated control. Data were collected on major insect pest incidence, severity of damage, plant growth parameters, number of
fruits per plant, fruit weight, and total marketable yield. The study revealed that all tested biopesticides significantly (p ≤ 0.05) outperformed the
control group and synthetic insecticide in reducing pest pressure. Neem leaf extract emerged as the most effective treatment, maintaining the lowest
pest populations and minimal crop damage. Tobacco leaf extract followed as a strong secondary option, showing moderate but consistent
effectiveness. Beyond pest suppression, these natural alternatives directly improved harvest quality: plots treated with Neem and tobacco produced
more fruits, and superior overall yields compared to untreated plots and plots treated with synthetic insecticide. These findings suggest that for bell
pepper farmers in the Owerri agro-ecological zone, biopesticides offer a viable, high-performing alternative to conventional chemicals for both
crop protection and yield enhancement. Adoption of these eco-friendly pest management options can contribute to sustainable vegetable production,
improved food safety, and reduced dependence on synthetic pesticides.
Keywords: Biopesticides, Bell pepper, Pest incidence, Yield, Owerri.
jaerem NEW Anah, Chinweizu
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