Spreading menace of the new invasive corn planthopper pest, Stenocranus pacificus Kirkaldy (Delphacidae: Hemiptera)

Issue Date

10-2009

Abstract

In 2004, an invasive planthopper species erroneously identified as Peregrinus maidis (Ashmead) devastated cornfields in Regions 9, 10, 11, 12 and the Autonomous Region of Muslim Mindanao. Diagnostic works at Plant Quarantine Support Laboratory of the National Crop Protection Center - Crop Protection Cluster, UP Los Banos and the Crop Protection Division, Bureau of Plant Industry, showed not a single Peregrinus maidis (Ashmead) from collections in Sultan Kudarat and South Cotabato. We initially placed this planthopper under the Sogatella genus based on genitalia features. Recent identification with the help of experts from Australia and Britain showed that it is Stenocranus pacificus Kirkaldy. Stunted plants and blackened leaves due to sooty molds are the signs of attack. Later, hopper burn becomes evident on the leaves. Young corn ears fail to reach grain filling stage due to fermentation brought about by honeydew secretions. As of 2006, this pest has been observed in two provinces of Bicol Region. In May 2008 this new pest has reached Laguna, Aurora, Pangasinan, Isabela and Cagayan. By 2009 it is reported in Occidental Mindoro, La Union, Ifugao. More corn growing areas in Luzon are now threatened. Implementation of a cooperative community-based surveillance and management program is now imperative to prevent the potential damages and spreading menace of this invasive alien pest in other corn-growing areas.

Source or Periodical Title

Philippine Entomologist

ISSN

0048-3753

Volume

23

Issue

2

Page

193

Document Type

Article

Frequency

semi-annually

Language

English

En – AGROVOC descriptors

PEREGRINUS MAIDIS; DELPHACIDAE; ZEA MAYS; FIELDS; PEST OF PLANTS; IDENTIFICATION; DAMAGE; CONTROL; PEST CONTROL

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