Controlling of Leaf Hopper in Cotton plant

Leafhoppers are small, sap-sucking insects that can be major pests for cotton crops. Several leafhopper species can attack cotton, including the potato leafhopper, southern garden leafhopper, and cotton jassid. Several leafhopper species can attack cotton, including the potato leafhopper, southern garden leafhopper, and cotton jassid. Both adult and nymph leafhoppers feed on the sap of cotton plants, primarily targeting the undersides of mature leaves. 

Damage caused due to LeafHopper:

• Stippling: Tiny pale dots on leaves, which may appear as wiggly lines from a distance.
• Yellowing and browning: Due to sap loss, leaves may turn yellow, red, or brown, a condition called hopper burn.
• Distortion: Affected leaves may become wrinkled, leathery, or curled downwards.
• Stunted growth: In severe cases, leafhopper feeding can stunt plant growth and reduce yield.
• Boll damage: Rarely, heavy infestations can cause squares and small bolls to shed, or larger bolls to become soft and spongy.

Classification:

• Type: Pest
• Common Name: Plant Hopper
• Scientific name: Amrasca (Biguttula biguttula) devastans
• Major parts affected in plants: Leaves
• Major affected states: Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh           

Favorable factors for LeafHopper in cotton:

• Temperature: Leafhoppers prefer warm temperatures, typically ranging from 21°C to 33°C (70°F to 91°F). Cooler temperatures slow down their development and reproduction.
• Humidity: Moderate to high humidity (70-90%) creates a favorable environment for leafhoppers, aiding survival and egg development. However, excessively high humidity can also promote fungal diseases that can harm the hoppers.
• Rainfall: Leafhoppers generally dislike heavy rainfall, as it can dislodge them from plants and wash away their eggs. However, short periods of dry weather followed by rainfall can trigger population surges.

Symptoms:

• Stippling: Tiny, pale dots or white flecks on the upper surface of leaves, sometimes appearing as wiggly lines. This is caused by leafhoppers piercing the leaf tissue to suck out sap.
• Yellowing and browning: Leaves turn yellow, red, or brown due to sap loss. This condition is often called "hopper burn" and can be widespread in severe infestations.
• Distortion: Affected leaves may become wrinkled, leathery, or curl downwards, especially along the edges. This is caused by uneven sap withdrawal and stunted growth.
• Honeydew: Leafhoppers excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can attract ants and other insects. You might see shiny droplets on leaves or stems.

Control measures for LeafHopper in Cotton Crop: