Measures to Control Leafhopper pest in Sugarcane crop

Leafhoppers are small, sap-sucking insects that can be a major pest of sugarcane crops. These insects feed on the sap of sugarcane leaves, which can damage the plant and reduce yields. In addition, leafhoppers also excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can promote the growth of sooty mold. Sooty mold is a fungus that can further reduce sugarcane yields by blocking sunlight from reaching the leaves.

• Type of Infestation: Pest
• Common Name: Leaf hopper
• Causal Organism: Pyrilla perpusilla
• Affected Parts Of the plant: Leaves

•  Size: They are typically small, ranging from 2 to 6 millimeters in length.
• Color: The color can vary depending on the species, but they are often brown, green, or yellow.
• Shape: They have a slender, elongated body with prominent eyes and long, jumping legs.
• Behavior: They are active and jump readily when disturbed.

• Temperature: sugarcane leafhopper populations are highest at temperatures around 34°C to 36.5°C (93°F to 98°F) [1, 2]. However, they can survive and reproduce in temperatures ranging from 20°C to 40°C.
• Humidity: sugarcane leafhoppers prefer high humidity, with populations thriving at around 68% relative humidity. They can tolerate a wider humidity range than temperature, surviving in humidity levels as low as 40% and as high as 90%.

• Yellowing of leaves: As leafhoppers feed on the sap of sugarcane leaves, they damage the plant's vascular system. This disrupts the flow of nutrients and water, causing the leaves to turn yellow and eventually dry out.
• Presence of honeydew: Leafhoppers excrete a sweet, sticky substance called honeydew.
• Sooty mold growth: Sooty mold is a black fungus that grows on the honeydew excreted by leafhoppers. It forms a film on the surface of the leaves, blocking sunlight and hindering the plant's ability to photosynthesize. This can lead to stunted growth and reduced yields.

• Drying of top leaves: Top leaves of the sugarcane plant may dry out and die. This can significantly reduce the yield of the crop.