Scirpophaga innotata

Scirpophaga innotata (ento-csiro-au)

Scirpophaga innotata, commonly known as the white rice borer, is a species of moth in the family Crambidae. It is a significant pest of rice crops, causing considerable damage to agriculture in various regions.

Description

The adult moth of Scirpophaga innotata has a wingspan of approximately 20-30 mm. The forewings are white with a distinctive dark spot, while the hindwings are also white but lack the spot. The larvae are creamy white with a brown head and can grow up to 25 mm in length.

Life Cycle

Scirpophaga innotata undergoes complete metamorphosis, which includes the stages of egg, larva, pupa, and adult. The female moth lays eggs on the leaves of rice plants. Upon hatching, the larvae bore into the stem of the plant, feeding on the internal tissues, which can lead to the death of the plant or significant yield loss.

Distribution

This species is found in various parts of Asia, including India, China, Indonesia, and the Philippines. It thrives in tropical and subtropical climates where rice is a staple crop.

Economic Impact

The white rice borer is a major pest in rice-growing regions. Infestations can lead to significant economic losses due to reduced crop yields and increased costs for pest management. Effective control measures are essential to mitigate the damage caused by this pest.

Control Methods

Several methods are employed to control Scirpophaga innotata populations, including:

• Cultural control: Practices such as crop rotation and proper field sanitation can help reduce the incidence of infestation.
• Biological control: Natural enemies like parasitoids and predators can be introduced to control the pest population.
• Chemical control: The use of insecticides can be effective, but it must be managed carefully to avoid resistance development and environmental impact.

Research and Development

Ongoing research aims to develop more sustainable and effective methods for managing Scirpophaga innotata. This includes the development of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies that combine various control methods to minimize the reliance on chemical insecticides.

See Also

• Rice pests
• Integrated pest management
• Crambidae