Brinjal

Tobacco Grasshopper

Atractomorpha crenulata

Insect

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In a Nutshell

  • Holes on leaves.

Can also be found in

6 Crops
Cotton
Brinjal
Okra
Rice
More

Brinjal

Symptoms

The tobacco grasshopper damages plants by feeding on young leaves and flower buds, creating circular holes in the foliage. The growth of the plants can be stunted in big infestations..

Recommendations

Organic Control

Cultural practices such as deep ploughing of soil can expose egg masses to natural enemies, aiding in their control. Alternative options for control of tobacco grasshopper are limited to the use of preventive measures and good field practices.

Chemical Control

Since this is a minor pest, it's best to use environmentally friendly control methods along with preventive measures. To control tobacco grasshoppers chemically, it's crucial to act early, especially when the grasshoppers are small, wingless, and located near crop borders. Treating the edges of fields can often prevent further damage. Spraying of quinalphos, malathion 0.1% or carbaryl, protects the foliage.When using pesticides or any chemical product, it is important to wear protective clothing and carefully read the label instructions. Regulations vary by country, so ensure you follow the specific guidelines for your area. This guarantees safety and increases the chances of successful application.

What caused it?

The tobacco grasshopper, is a medium-sized, short-horned insect that is green or brown in color. This peculiar-looking grasshopper, distinguished by its cone-shaped head, is typically found in Asia, thriving in reeds and grasses near rivers or streams. It is mainly active during the day and feeds on plants, making it a minor pest in gardens and a significant pest in tobacco nurseries and other crops. The tobacco grasshopper breeds year-round, with most hatching in the spring. However, their survival can be threatened by cool, wet conditions that kill many hatchlings, or dry springs that limit available food. Both adult and young grasshoppers contribute to plant damage.

Preventive Measures

  • Keep the nursery area and the field clean and free of weeds and grasses.
  • Cover nurseries with netting to prevent grasshoppers from reaching the more susceptible young plants.
  • Plant flowers like marigolds, calendula, sunflower, aster, alyssum, or dill attract beneficial insects that naturally control grasshopper populations.
  • Provide water sources and suitable nesting habitats in your field to attract birds such as kestrels and larks.
  • These birds help reduce grasshopper populations by eating large quantities of them.

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