Diversity and Relative Abundance of Insect Visitors of Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) at Baisjagar, Tanahun, Nepal

Abstract

Litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn.) is a highly cross-pollinated plant, and the identification of insect visitors is critical for enhancing its production. A study was conducted in Baisjagar, Tanahun, Nepal, from March to April 2023 to assess the diversity and relative abundance of insect visitors to Litchi trees. The experiment involved the use of yellow sticky traps placed on five different Litchi trees, with two traps installed per tree on branches near the panicles. Readings were taken weekly over four weeks. A total of eighteen insect species from six orders and thirteen families were identified during the study. Among the recorded insects, the order Diptera was the most abundant, accounting for 51.12% of the total, and was represented by five families: Syrphidae, Sarcophagidae, Calliphoridae, Muscidae, and Tachinidae. This was followed by Hymenoptera (32.02%), Hemiptera (12.54%), Lepidoptera (2.24%), Coleoptera (1.31%), and Orthoptera (0.74%). The species Apis cerana was the most frequently recorded, with 108 individuals captured. The study highlights the importance of pollinators, particularly Diptera and Hymenoptera, in Litchi production. Effective management and conservation of these pollinating insects can help ensure successful pollination and fruit production. Additionally, integrating apiculture with Litchi farming can enhance pollination services and provide mutual benefits, increasing yields and economic returns for farmers. This study suggested the need for sustainable practices to protect insect diversity in agricultural ecosystems.