Root/stem borer is a common pest that attacks paddy crops and can cause significant damage to plants, resulting in reduced yield and quality. The control of root/stem borer in paddy is essential to prevent significant economic loss for farmers. Here is some information on how to manage the pest and prevent its destructive effects.
Identification of Root/Stem borer
Before implementing any control measures, it is crucial to identify the root/stem borer. There are two common types of root/stem borers in paddy crops: the yellow stem borer and the dark stem borer. The yellow stem borer larvae typically feed on the stem bases, while the dark stem borer larvae feed on the roots and stems of paddy plants.
Cultural Practices for Control
Cultural practices play a vital role in controlling root/stem borer in paddy crops. These practices include the following:
1. Proper Field Preparation: Farmers should ensure that the field is adequately prepared before planting. This includes proper tilling and leveling of the soil, which helps eliminate larvae already present in the soil.
2. Early Planting: Early planting of paddy crops helps prevent the buildup of the pest population. Planting early allows the crop to mature before the peak infestation period, which is usually during the later stages of crop growth.
3. Timely Harvesting: If crops are not harvested at the right time, they can provide a favorable environment for the pest to thrive. Proper timing of harvesting can reduce the population of root/stem borer.
Chemical Control
There are several chemical control methods available that can help prevent root/stem borer infestations. Farmers can use a variety of insecticides, including synthetic pyrethroids and organophosphates. These chemicals should be applied as soon as there is a sign of infestation. It is essential to follow the label instructions carefully while using chemical insecticides.
Biological Control
Biological control is an effective and sustainable solution to manage pests such as root/stem borer. Farmers can use several natural enemies, such as egg parasitoids, predator insects, and entomopathogenic fungi.
Egg Parasitoids: Trichogramma chilonis is an effective egg parasitoid against yellow stem borer. Farmers can introduce Trichogramma chilonis at the early stage of crop growth.
Predator Insects: Predator insects such as spiders, damsel bugs, and lady beetles are natural enemies of root/stem borer. Farmers should encourage the presence of these insects in the paddy fields to reduce pest infestation.
Entomopathogenic fungi: Entomopathogenic fungi, such as Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium anisopliae, are effective in controlling root/stem borer. Farmers can spray these fungi onto the crop when there is an infestation.
Conclusion
Managing root/stem borer in paddy crops requires a combination of cultural, chemical, and biological control measures. Farmers should employ integrated pest management strategies that include a combination of these methods. Careful identification at an early stage can help prevent severe economic losses due to pest infestations.