Revealing pest patterns: A comparative spatial distribution analysis of insect threats in Kharif rice across the key agricultural regions in the Eastern India

Abstract BACKGROUND This study investigates the spatial distribution and aggregation patterns of major insect pests in Kharif rice fields during the 2023 growing season in Eastern India. The analysis focuses on key pests such as yellow stem borer (YSB), gall midge, green leaf hopper (GLH), and brown planthopper (BPH), as well as rice thrips, caseworm, whorl maggot, Gundhi bug, grasshopper, and leaf folder. Using statistical indices, this study aims to understand pest behavior across Standard Meteorological Weeks (SMWs) to better inform pest control strategies. RESULTS The study reveals significant clustering and aggregation patterns among the pests. YSB exhibited variance–mean ratio (VMR) values between 1.14 (40th SMW) and 1.96 (31st SMW), with dispersion parameter (K) values ranging from 0.57 to 21.65, and a peak index of dispersion of 132.66 (43rd SMW). Similarly, gall midge showed VMR values from 6.19 to 10.48, whereas GLH and BPH recorded VMR ranges of 1.19 to 132.10 and 1.01 to 1.50, respectively. These spatial distribution trends were confirmed through values for Iwao's patchiness index and Taylor's power law, indicating strong pest aggregation in specific areas. CONCLUSION The results underscore the need for region‐specific integrated pest management strategies that take into account pest clustering and environmental factors influencing pest distribution. Although an S‐curve pattern of infestation—showing gradual population increases, rapid peaks, and eventual decline—was observed, the primary focus remains spatial patterns, which are critical for optimizing pest management and improving rice crop sustainability in the region. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.