Revolutionary PB Knot Rope Technology to Combat Pink Bollworm Infestation

A new technology called PB Knot rope is being tested in the Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh to control the pink bollworm, a notorious pest that affects cotton crops. The infestation of pink bollworm can range from 30-90% of the cropping area, causing significant yield loss. Traditional insecticides are ineffective against this pest as it spends most of its lifecycle inside closed bolls, making it difficult to detect and control. However, the PB Knot rope, which releases female sex pheromones of the insect, is showing promising results in disrupting the mating process of the pink bollworm. The rope is tagged at a rate of 160 knots per acre and should be applied 35-40 days after sowing. This technology has been implemented in 50 acres of cotton fields in Julakallu village, involving small and marginal farmers. The high dosage of sex pheromones confuses the male moths, leading to their death and hampering the mating process. Experts believe that this technology has the potential to revolutionize pest control in cotton farming.