Sogatella furcifera

202205 Long-winged white-backed planthopper

Sogatella furcifera, commonly known as the white-backed planthopper, is a species of planthopper in the family Delphacidae. It is a significant agricultural pest that primarily affects rice crops in various parts of Asia.

Description

The white-backed planthopper is characterized by its distinctive white band on the back, which gives it its common name. Adults are typically small, measuring about 3-4 mm in length. They have a slender body and are capable of both short flights and long-distance migrations.

Life Cycle

The life cycle of Sogatella furcifera includes several stages: egg, nymph, and adult. Females lay eggs in the leaf sheaths of rice plants. The nymphs go through five instar stages before becoming adults. The entire life cycle can be completed in about 25-30 days under optimal conditions.

Distribution

Sogatella furcifera is widely distributed across Asia, including countries such as China, India, Japan, and Thailand. It has also been reported in parts of Africa and Oceania.

Economic Impact

As an agricultural pest, Sogatella furcifera causes significant damage to rice crops. The nymphs and adults feed on the sap of rice plants, leading to reduced plant vigor, stunted growth, and in severe cases, plant death. This pest is also a vector for several plant viruses, including the Southern rice black-streaked dwarf virus.

Management and Control

Effective management of Sogatella furcifera involves a combination of cultural, biological, and chemical control methods. Cultural practices include maintaining proper water levels in rice fields and planting resistant rice varieties. Biological control involves the use of natural predators and parasitoids. Chemical control is typically achieved through the application of insecticides, although resistance to certain chemicals has been reported.

Research and Studies

Ongoing research aims to develop more sustainable and effective methods for managing Sogatella furcifera. Studies focus on understanding the pest's biology, behavior, and interactions with rice plants, as well as exploring new biological control agents and resistant rice varieties.

See Also

• Planthopper
• Delphacidae
• Rice
• Agricultural pest
• Southern rice black-streaked dwarf virus