Measures to Control Whitefly pest in Sugarcane Crop

Sugarcane, one of the most important crops, globally faces threats from the Pests and Diseases. The pests and diseases cause significant yield losses if left unchecked. In this article, we'll explore effective measures to control and manage Pests and Diseases. 

What is a Whitefly pest?

These tiny, sap-sucking insects are related to aphids, mealybugs, and scale. They get their name from the powdery white wax that covers their wings and bodies. Whiteflies thrive in warm climates and are common pests in greenhouses and gardens worldwide. They are often found on the undersides of plant leaves.

Type of Infestation	Pest
Common Name	Whitefly
Scientific Name	Aleurolobus barodensis
Affected Parts Of the plant	Leaves and Stem

 

How to Identify Whitefly pest in Sugarcane Crop

The main characteristics of Whitefly to identify is:

• Egg: Females lay tiny eggs on the underside of leaves.
• Nymph: Nymphs are flat, oval, and scale-like. They attach themselves to leaves and feed on sap.
• Pupa: This is a non-feeding, transitional stage before adulthood.
• Adult: Adults have four wings and resemble tiny white moths.

Favourable factors of Whitefly pest in Sugarcane Crop

Whiteflies thrive in warm conditions, with optimal temperatures ranging from 25-30°C, and also require moderate to high humidity levels for survival and reproduction.

Symptoms of Sugarcane crop affected by Whitefly pest

• Whiteflies suck sap from the leaves, causing them to turn yellow and pale.
• Leaves might change to a pinkish or purplish color before drying out.
• Whiteflies excrete a sticky substance called honeydew. This attracts a black fungus called sooty mold, giving leaves a blackened, sooty appearance.
• Heavy infestations can significantly slow plant growth.
• Severe cases can lead to dried, withered leaves, making the crop look burnt, hence the term "fiery appearance".

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
BEAUVERIA BASSIANA	Bio	3 ml/ liter water
VERTICILLIUM LECANI	Bio	5 ml/ liter water
SARVASHAKTHI	Organic	1 ml/ liter of water

Chemical control methods for Mite pest in sugarcane crop

Here are the best recommendations of Chemical control measures.

Products	Technical Names	Dosages
NASHAK	Fipronil 40 % + Imidacloprid 40 % WG	100 - 200 gm/ Acre
IMD-178	Imidacloprid 17.8 % SL	100 -150 ml per acre
THIOXAM	Thiamethoxam 25 % WG	5 to 10 gm per 15 ltr of water
ASHWAMEDH	Diafenthiuron 50 % WP	250 g / acre
K-ACEPRO	Acetamiprid 20 % SP	60 - 80 grams/ liter

 

Also read - 

How to Control Mites pest in Sugarcane Crop.

FAQs : Managing Whitefly in Sugarcane Crops

Q. How Whiteflies affect the crop?

A. Whiteflies suck sap from the leaves

Q. Is Whitefly a seasonal pest?

A. No, whiteflies are not seasonal pests

Q. Symptoms of Whitefly affected plants?

A. The affected plants turn yellow and pale color.

Q. What is the price of Nashak Product?

A. The 40 grams of Nashak costs around 500 rupees.