Agricultural
26 July, 2023
New research holds promise for pigeonpea
Queensland scientists have their finger on the pulse with their first of its kind research into pest challenges in pigeonpea.
The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries (DAF) is trialling pigeonpea as a new dryland summer pulse crop for Australian farmers.
The research is part of a four-year, $2.58 million innovative pigeonpea initiative.
There is currently limited research on pest-crop interactions of pigeonpea, particularly the key caterpillar pest, Helicoverpa armigera (formerly known as Heliothis).
DAF research scientist Trevor Volp has been studying the potential to develop pigeonpea varieties less susceptible to the pest via host-plant resistance.
Host-plant resistance research has experienced substantial success in other Queensland crops including sorghum and cotton.
“Grain growers need a summer legume for sustainable and profitable rotations in drier regions where mungbean and soybean are not well-suited,” Mr Volp said.
“Pigeonpea will also help Queensland better meet increasing demand for high-value pulse exports.”
