Paddy-growing farmers often face pest infestations that can affect their crop's yield. One of the common pests is the Leaf Folder (Cnaphalocrocis medinalis/Marasmia patnalis). Understanding damage symptoms and taking timely control measures is crucial to prevent severe losses.
What is Leaf Folder in Paddy Crop?
The Leaf Folder in paddy, scientific name Cnaphalocrocis medinalis or Marasmia patnalis, is a common insect pest that damages rice crops. The larvae of this pest fold the rice leaves lengthwise, creating a shelter inside where they feed on the green tissues. This feeding causes the leaves to turn white and dry, leading to significant yield loss if left untreated. In severe infestations, entire fields may take on a dry and burnt appearance due to the extensive damage caused by the larvae.
Symptoms of Leaf Folder Damage
The Leaf Folder pest primarily attacks rice crops by damaging the leaves. Here are the common signs to look out for:
- Leaf Folding: The larvae fold the leaves longitudinally and remain inside the fold.
- Scraping of Green Tissues: The larvae scrape the green tissues of the leaves, turning them white and dry over time.
- Scorched Appearance: In severe cases, the entire field can exhibit a scorched or burnt look due to extensive damage.
Identifying the Leaf Folder Pest
- Eggs: The eggs are flat, oval, and yellowish-white in colour.
- Larvae: The larvae are greenish and translucent, making them somewhat difficult to spot.
- Adults: The adult moth is yellowish-brown with dark wavy lines in the centre and a dark band on the wings' edges.
When to take action for Paddy Leaf Folder control ?
- Vegetative Phase: Action should be taken when 10% of the leaves show damage.
- Flowering Phase: At this stage, control measures should be implemented when 5% of the flag leaves are damaged.
Management and Control Measures
Chemical Control
One of the most effective chemical insecticides for controlling Leaf Folder in paddy is Katyayani Chloda (Chlorantraniliprole 9.3% + Lambda Cyhalothrin 4.6% ZC ). This strong insecticide is specifically designed to control pests like Leaf Folder and offers significant benefits for farmers growing Paddy
Conclusion
Leaf Folder can cause significant damage to rice crops, but by following these control measures, especially using Katyayani Chloda as a reliable chemical option, farmers can protect their crops from severe damage. Remember to act early and stay vigilant to ensure a healthy and productive rice crop.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is a leaf folder in paddy?
A. The rice leaf folder is a caterpillar that attacks rice leaves and is a common pest in rice fields
Q. Which is the best Insecticide for leaf folder in rice?
A. Katyayani Chloda is one of the best leaf folder insecticide for the management of leaf folder in rice.
Q. What are the symptoms of rice leaf folder damage ?
A. The insect folds the leaves and remains inside of the leaf and removes the green tissue turning the leaf white
Q. How can I identify Leaf Folder pests?
- Eggs: Flat, oval, and yellowish-white in colour.
- Larvae: Greenish and translucent.
- Adults: Moths are yellowish-brown with dark wavy lines and a dark band on the wings.
Q. When should I take action to control Leaf Folder infestation?
A. Action should be taken during the following stages to control Leaf Folder in Paddy
- Vegetative Phase: If 10% of the leaves show damage.
- Flowering Phase: If 5% of the flag leaves are damaged.
