%0 Journal Article
%T Diversity of Insects on Four Cashew Nut Varieties Inflorescences “Anacardium occidentale L.” in Niofoin “Côte d’Ivoire”
%A Yalamoussa Tuo
%A Drissa Coulibaly
%A Mouhamadou Koné
%A Soumaila Traoré
%A Klana Koné
%A Kouakou Hervé Koua
%J Entomology and Applied Science Letters
%@ 2349-2864
%D 2022
%V 9
%N 1
%R 10.51847/IkQ2Hu7Kcp
%P 31-38
%X Cashew nut represents the third most exported agricultural product of Côte d’Ivoire. However, the yield production of cashew is still low likely due to many factors including under-pollination. This study aims to identify the insects visiting cashew tree inflorescences at Niofoin in northern Côte d’Ivoire. Observations were made in a cashew orchard measuring two hectares. Insects visiting the inflorescences were captured and identified. A total of four cashew nut varieties (Yellow Benin, Henry, Costa Rica, and James) were observed. The daily activity of honey bee Apis mellifera, considered here as the number of flower visits made by a bee in one minute to an inflorescence, was evaluated on the inflorescences from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. The findings showed 16 families belonging to 7 orders. Among the insect families, Apidae emerged as the most abundant family (32.15%). Apis mellifera (Apidae) was the main visitor of cashew tree inflorescences. His activity was stronger on "Yellow Benin" and "Henry" varieties compared to "James" and "Costa Rica" varieties. For all varieties of cashew trees, honey bee activity varied throughout the day with two peaks, one between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. and the other between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. It was inversely proportional to temperature (p < 0.05; r = - 0.59) and evolved in the same direction with relative humidity (p < 0.05; r = 0.49). This study, although preliminary, remains quite relevant because it will help to boost cashew production in northern Côte d’Ivoire through the pollinators’ involvement.
%U https://easletters.com/article/diversity-of-insects-on-four-cashew-nut-varieties-inflorescences-anacardium-occidentale-l-in-niof-dj2h6zp5dqyokns