Early Shoot Borer

Overview: Chilo infuscatellus, commonly known as the Sugarcane Stem Borer, poses a significant threat to sugarcane crops. This pest can cause substantial damage by burrowing into the stems of sugarcane plants, impacting both yield and overall plant health.

Detailed Appearance:

• Adult Moths: The adult moths are relatively inconspicuous, featuring a brownish-gray coloration. They have a wingspan of approximately 1.5 inches (38 mm) and may exhibit subtle markings.

• Larvae (Caterpillars): The larvae are the destructive stage, with a creamy-white body and a distinctive brown head capsule. They can grow up to 1.5 inches (38 mm) in length.

Life Cycle:

• Egg Stage: Adult moths lay eggs on the leaves of sugarcane plants. The eggs are small, oval, and pale, marking the beginning of the life cycle.

• Larval Stage: Upon hatching, the larvae bore into the sugarcane stems, creating tunnels as they feed. This tunneling causes weakening of the stems and disrupts the transport of nutrients.

• Pupal Stage: Mature larvae pupate within the sugarcane stems, emerging as adult moths after the pupal stage.

• Adult Stage: Adult moths emerge and repeat the cycle by laying eggs on new sugarcane plants.

Identifying Crop Infection:

• Wilting and Dying Plants: Infested sugarcane plants exhibit wilting and may eventually die due to the disruption of nutrient transport caused by larval tunneling.

• Presence of Entry Holes: Small entry holes on the stems of sugarcane plants indicate the activity of the larvae. Sawdust-like frass may also be visible around these entry points.

Management:

1. 1. Biological Control: Introduce natural enemies such as parasitoid wasps and predatory beetles that target Sugarcane Stem Borer larvae.

   2. Cultural Practices: Implement proper field sanitation by removing and destroying crop residues to reduce overwintering sites. Planting resistant sugarcane varieties can also be effective.

   3. Chemical Control: Insecticides can be used, targeting the vulnerable larval stage. Application timing is crucial, focusing on periods when the larvae are actively feeding.

   4. Monitoring: Regularly inspect sugarcane fields for signs of infestation, including wilting plants and entry holes. Early detection allows for timely intervention and effective pest management.