Farmers' knowledge and perceptions on management of L. Invasa on eucalyptus species in Western Kenya.

Abstract

Leptocybe invasa, Fisher & LaSalle, (Hymenoptera: Eulophidae) locally termed as Blue-gum Chalcid (BGC)is a gan~fbrining . wasp, which causes an extensive damage to Eucalyptus by forming typical bump-shaped galls on tree canopy, specifically on' the leaf midribs, petioles and stems of new growths. A study aimed at providing information necessary for sustainable management of BGC, through documenting farmers experiences on BGC attack and their coping strategies, was carried out in five districts of Western Kenya. It involved collection of primary data through pre-tested questionnaire administered, to 100 farmers randomly selected from lists of Eucalyptus farmers in the five districts to ascertain farmers' experiences on, BGC attack and coping strategies. The data was analysed using descriptive statistics based on percentage frequencies of various responses and Chi-square tests for checking the association among the variables. Pearson correlation was used to check' interrelation among variables. It was observed that many farmers had observed the symptoms of BGC infestation but few of them were aware of the causative agent. The level of damage was significantly negatively correlated with age of the tree' (Pearson correlation = -0.657, p<O.Ol) where trees less than 1 year old were highly attacked as compared to trees older than 5 years. Effects of BGC damage on the host tree included mainly deformity and reduced the growth rate of the Eucalyptus trees. Majority of the farmers cited lack of know-how on the control methods and the knowledge of the pest to be among the constraints in managing the spread of the pest. Information on the pest status, level of damage by BGC and its control measures should be communicated to the farmers to enhance better understanding, hence improve their perception on management of this pest. Most farmers are still willing to plant more Eucalyptus trees irrespective of the pest.