Sugarcane, one of the most important crops, globally faces threat from the mites pests. These tiny, Sap-Sucking insects can wreak havoc on sugarcane fields, leading to significant yield losses if left unchecked. In this article, we'll explore effective measures to control and manage mealybug infestations, and the product recommendations to sugarcane crop for optimal productivity to farmers.
What is a Mite pest ?
Mites come in a wide range of sizes. They typically have four pairs of legs, and their bodies are often segmented or fused together. Mites breathe through either tracheae or their skin. The most common way mites harm sugarcane is by piercing and sucking the sap from the leaves. This feeding activity disrupts the plant's ability to photosynthesize and produce sugar, leading to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and reduced yields.
Short Description of Mealybug Pest
Here is the detail information related to the Mite pest:
Type of Infestation |
Pest |
Common Name |
Mite |
Scientific Name |
Eriophyes sacchari |
Affected Parts Of the plant |
Leaves, Stalk and Roots |
Identification of Mite pest in Sugarcane crop
The main characteristics of Mite pest to identify is:
- Size: Mites are very small, typically measuring less than 1 mm in length. They are often difficult to see with the naked eye.
- Body: Mites have a segmented body that is divided into two parts: the cephalothorax (fused head and thorax) and the abdomen.
- Mouthparts: Mites have piercing-sucking mouthparts that they use to feed on plant sap.
- Legs: Mites have eight legs, which they use to crawl and climb.
- Reproduction: Mites reproduce by laying eggs. The eggs hatch into nymphs, which go through several molting stages before reaching adulthood.
Favourable factors of Mite pests
Prefers temperatures between 25-35°C (77-95°F) and relative humidity of 70-80%.
Symptoms of Sugarcane crop affected by Mite pest
Main symptoms of plant affected by mealybug pest are:
- Yellowing, Reddening, or Bronzing of the leaves.
- Mite-infested sugarcane crops will exhibit stunted growth, with reduced height and fewer internodes.
- Overall health of the crop will decline, with the affected plants appearing weak and lacking their usual vibrancy.
- Splitting open the cane stalk may reveal a brownish-red discoloration inside the stem.
Also read -
How to Control Mites pest in Sugarcane Crop
How to Control Mealybug pest in sugarcane Crop
How to Control Red Rot disease in Sugarcane Crop
How to Control Rust Disease in Sugarcane Crop
Bio and Organic products for control of Mite pests in sugarcane crop
Here are the best recommendations of bio and organic products.
Products |
Bio/Organic |
Dosage |
Organic |
4 ml/ 1 litre of water |
|
Sporothrix Fungorum |
Bio Pesticide |
3 ml/ 1 litre of water |
Chemical control methods for Mite pest in sugarcane crop
Here are the best recommendations of Chemical control measures.
Products |
Technical Names |
Dosages |
abamectin 1.9% EC |
1 ml/ 1 litre of water |
|
Spiromesifen 22.9% SC |
200-250 ml/acre |
|
fenpyroximate 5% SC |
1 - 1.5 ml/ 1 litre of water |
|
Sulphur 80 % WDG |
750 to 1000 grams per acre. |
|
Diafenthiuron 50 % WP |
250 g / acre |
|
Hexythiazox 5.45% EC |
400-500 ml per hectare |
Mite Pests in Sugarcane FAQs
Q. What is the price of one litre bottle of KACIN?
A. The 100 ml Bottle cost around 550 rupees.
Q. Best Product for Mites?
A. KACIN is the most recommended product for mites.
Q. How to Apply?
A. The above mentioned most of the products are applied by foliar spray.
Q. Best time for Application of pesticides?
A. Early Morning or Late Evening is the best time for application of pesticides.