Deadly Pest Attacking Sugarcane Crop: Experts Share Effective Prevention Tips

Sugarcane Crop

Krishi Dunia

• 14 Apr, 2025 11:59 AM IST ,
• Updated Mon, 14 Apr 2025 04:26 PM

For sugarcane farmers, the month of April is a critical period of vigilance due to the rapid spread of a destructive pest called Pyrilla. This pest sucks sap from the sugarcane leaves, severely affecting both the yield and quality of the crop. Early detection and timely control measures are essential—otherwise, farmers could face significant losses.

Pyrilla: A Growing Threat to Sugarcane in Major States:

In major sugarcane-producing states like Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, and Bihar, the Pyrilla pest has become a serious concern. Experts say this pest is typically active from April to October, with peak infestations seen from August to October. According to Rajeev Tyagi, Cane Development Manager at Modi Sugar Mill, Modinagar, the infestation usually begins in April-May.

How Pyrilla Affects the Crop:

Rajeev Tyagi explains that young nymphs of the Pyrilla pest suck sap from the leaves, causing yellowing and weakening of the plant. This can reduce sugarcane yield by 28–50%, while sucrose content drops by 2–34% and purity by 3–26%.

Pyrilla can be identified by its brown-colored body and a beak-like structure at the head. Its nymphs have two tail-like projections, and its presence leads to sticky secretions and black fungal growth on leaves.

Timely Action is Crucial – Here's What to Do:

The pest usually first appears in April, and early intervention can save the crop:

• Remove and destroy infected leaves by burning or deep burying.
• Prevent weed growth, as weeds can shelter the pest.
• Monitor the field regularly during early morning and evening hours.
• Use light traps to attract and kill adult Pyrilla insects.

Organic Control Measures:

Natural enemies can effectively control Pyrilla:

• Egg Parasitoids such as Tetrastichus pyrillae, Cheiloneurus pyrillae, and Oncyrtus papilionaceus can control up to 80% of Pyrilla population after the monsoon.
• Spraying Metarhizium anisopliae fungal spores can eliminate up to 94% of the pest, especially in cooler temperatures with high humidity.

Chemical Control – When Organic Methods Are Not Enough:

If organic methods fail, the following insecticides can be used:

• Dimethoate 30% E.C. – 1 litre/hectare
• Profenofos 40% + Cypermethrin 4% E.C. – 750 ml/hectare
• Quinalphos 25% E.C. – 800 ml/hectare
• Dichlorvos 76% E.C. – 315 ml/hectare

Dilute the chemicals in 625 litres of water per hectare and spray using proper protective gear. Always follow recommended dosages and safety instructions.

Timely Control Can Save Yield and Quality: Pyrilla is a highly destructive pest for sugarcane crops. However, with timely use of organic and chemical measures, its spread can be controlled effectively. This not only protects the crop's quality and yield, but also safeguards farmers from financial loss.