Sure, here’s an article on control of white-backed plant hopper and brown plant hopper in paddy crop.
Rice or paddy is the staple food of millions of people worldwide. However, the crop is constantly challenged by pests like white-backed plant hopper and brown plant hopper. These pests can cause significant yield losses if not controlled in time. In this article, we will discuss effective measures for controlling these pests in paddy crop.
Identification of pests:
White-backed plant hopper (WBPH) and brown plant hopper (BPH) are two of the most destructive pests of paddy. Both pests suck the sap from the rice plants, causing yellowing of leaves, stunted growth, and even death of the plant. To detect hopper infestation, one should tap the rice plants to dislodge the insects. The hoppers fall to the ground and can be collected and identified under a microscope.
Control measures:
1. Cultural practice: Proper cultural practices can prevent pest infestations to a considerable extent. Transplanting of rice after the rainy season is a good practice as it helps to reduce hopper infestations. Drainage of fields and removal of weeds also aid in controlling pest population growth.
2. Biological control: Several predators, parasites and pathogens are known to be effective against hoppers. Mass release of Trichogramma wasps and egg parasitoids can help to control the hopper population. The fungi, Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae, and the bacterium, Bacillus thuringiensis, also have active ingredients against hoppers.
3. Chemical control: The use of insecticides is a common method of controlling hopper infestation. However, frequent use of insecticides can lead to pest resistance and environmental pollution. Selective insecticides like imidacloprid, thiamethoxam, and buprofezin are preferred over broad-spectrum insecticides. The timing of insecticide application is critical, and early detection and treatment of hopper infestations are essential.
4. Use of resistant varieties: Some rice varieties are resistant to hopper attacks. The varieties that exhibit host plant resistance are high-yielding and require fewer insecticides for protection.
Conclusion:
Hopper infestations are a significant threat to paddy crops. However, by implementing the right control measures at the correct time, farmers can prevent and reduce the damage caused by hoppers. Proper cultural practices, biological controls, restraints on the use of chemical pesticides, and the use of resistant varieties are recommended for hopper management. By adopting these methods, farmers can promote sustainable rice production and ensure food security for all.