Vol. 9, Issue 4, Part C (2025)

This research was carried out in 2020-2021 during rabi season at Norman E. Borlaug Crop Research Centre (CRC) of G.B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, with the objective to identify the source of resistance in 11 chickpea germplasms against pod borer Helicoverpa armigera. The study revealed that trichomes play a crucial role in imparting resistance against Helicoverpa armigera in chickpea germplasms. This study evaluated the length of glandular and non-glandular trichomes on leaves and pods across different chickpea genotypes. Results indicated that the minimum glandular trichome length was (225.60 μm) observed on GJG 1801and the maximum glandular trichome length (300.50 μm) was recorded on NBeG 810. Similarly, the length of non-glandular trichomes on upper surface of the leaf varied from 180.35 μm to 245.10 μm. The lowest glandular trichome length (220.70μm) on GJG 1801 and the maximum glandular trichome length in NBeG 810 (297.10 μm). The length of the glandular trichome on pods varied significantly between the germplasm. The highest length of glandular trichomes (311.05 μm) on DMHC 18-1664 wheresas the lowest glandular trichome length (240.71μm) on GJG 1801. Results showed that germplasms with higher trichome length on leaves and pods are least preffered by H. armigera. These findings highlight the potential of trichome-based antixenotic resistance in chickpea breeding programs for pest management..