Aphids are tiny, soft-bodied insects that feed on the sap of plants. They are small, oval-shaped insects that range in colour from green, yellow and black. Sorghum aphids are a serious pest that affects sorghum crop by sucking the sap from the plants. They are often referred to as “plant lice” because of their feeding habits, which can cause stunted growth, distorted leaves and even death of the affected plants. Warm and humid conditions favor the growth and development of sorghum aphids.
Sorghum aphids are known to infest the sorghum crop in two ways: direct infestation and indirect infestation. Direct infestation occurs when the aphids feed on the sap of the plant, causing a reduction in the plant’s growth and yield. Indirect infestation occurs when the aphids secrete a honeydew substance, which attracts other pests such as ants and flies. These pests feed on the honeydew, and their feeding activity can also damage the plant.
Scientific Name: Rhopalosiphum maidis, Melanaphis sacchari.
In India, Sorghum aphids are commonly found in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and Gujarat.
Sorghum aphid infestations can cause significant damage to the crop, resulting in stunted growth and reduced yield. Some of the common symptoms of Sorghum aphid infestations are:
A combination of different control measures is often required to effectively manage aphid infestations in sorghum crops. The following are some common IPM practices used to control aphids.
Commercial chemicals that are used to control sorghum aphids includes,
Product Name | Technical Content | Dosage |
Confidor Insecticide | Imidacloprid 17.8% SL | 0.75 – 1 ml/lit water |
Actara Insecticide | Thiamethoxam 25 % WG | 0.5 gm/lit water |
Anshul Ikon Insecticide | Acetamiprid 20% S.P. | 0.5 gm/lit water |
Tafgor Insecticide | Dimethoate 30% EC | 1.5 – 2.5 ml/lit water |
Asataf Insecticide | Acephate 75% SP | 1 – 1.5 gm/lit water |
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