Measures to Control Jassids (Planthopper) in Sunflower Crop
Jassids, also commonly known as leafhoppers, are tiny, sap-sucking insects. Jassids are typically green, yellow, or brown in color and range in size from a few millimeters to about 1 centimeter long. They have two pairs of wings, but the hind wings are often transparent and membranous. Jassids are known for their jumping ability, which they use to escape predators.
Identification:
- Feeding habits: Jassids use their piercing-sucking mouthparts to feed on the sap of plants. They inject saliva into the plant tissue, which can damage the plant and make it more susceptible to disease.
- Life cycle: Jassids complete metamorphosis, which means they go through four distinct stages in their life cycle: egg, nymph, pupa, and adult. The nymphs resemble the adults but lack wings and are smaller.
- Economic impact: Jassids can be serious agricultural pests. They can cause stunted growth, wilting, and yellowing of leaves, and they can also transmit plant diseases. Some of the common crops affected by Jassids include cotton, rice, maize, and sugarcane.
Environmental favorable factors for pests/Diseases:
- Temperature: Jassids are generally more active and reproduce faster in warm weather. Studies have shown that jassid populations tend to be higher during the summer months when temperatures are warmer.
- Humidity: Jassids prefer moderately humid conditions for optimal survival and development. However, excessively high humidity can also be detrimental to jassid populations by promoting the growth of fungal diseases that can infect them.
Symptoms of Pest/Disease:
- Yellowing and Curling of leaves
- Bronzing
- Stippling on Leaves
- Wilting of Leaves
- Stunting of Growth
Measures to control Pests/Diseases:
Products |
Technical Names |
Dosages |
Imidacloprid 17.8 % SL |
100 -150 ml per acre |
|
Imidacloprid 70 % WG |
2-3gms per 15 ltr water |
|
Acetamiprid 20 % SP |
60 to 80 grams per acre |
|
Thiamethoxam 25 % wg |
200 g/ha |
FAQs About Jassids (Planthopper) in Sunflower Crop
Q. What are jassids and their scientific name?
A. Jassids, also known as leafhoppers, are sap-sucking pests. The scientific name for sunflower jassid is Amrasca biguttula biguttula.
Q. What are the symptoms of jassid infestation in sunflowers
A. Symptoms include yellowing, curling, and bronzing of leaves, stippling, wilting, stunted growth, and leaf damage due to sap feeding.
Q. How can jassids be controlled in sunflower crops?
A. Control measures include using insecticides like Imidacloprid 17.8% SL (100-150 ml/acre) or Thiamethoxam 25% WG (200 g/ha) with proper application techniques.
Q. What is the life cycle of jassids?
A. Jassids undergo complete metamorphosis, progressing through egg, nymph, pupa, and adult stages, with nymphs resembling adults but lacking wings.
Q. Which chemicals are best for jassid control?
A. Effective insecticides include Imidacloprid, Thiamethoxam, and Acetamiprid. Apply as per recommended dosages for optimal pest control.