Abstract
We analyzed the variation in occurrence time and intensity of attacks by the rice stem borer (Chilo suppressalis Walker) on several crops. This study aimed to understand how C. suppressalis damages crops and to utilize this basic data for the establishment of environment-friendly control methods like pheromone traps. This study surveyed the changes in occurrence patterns of C. suppressalis, biological characteristics of overwintering larvae, and the efficacy of different types of pheromone traps the years. We found similar occurrence patterns of C. suppressalis in different crops. In addition, occurrence time of the first generation was advanced. Overwintering larvae showed no difference in pupal period and weight compared to the non-overwintering ones. However, the larval period was reduced to 19.1 days in Miscanthus field, in contrast to that in the paddy fields. It was confirmed that larvae of C. suppressalis generally prefer the lower part of the stems of Miscanthus. Efficiency of the emergence trap was confirmed to be greater than that of the delta trap for capturing C. suppressalis adults. However, it is necessary to adjust the control period because of the advancement in occurring time of C. suppressalis in recent years. The larvae of C. suppressalis experience favorable environmental conditions for overwintering in Miscanthus fields. The major Miscanthus fields are generally located in the areas protected for sources of drinking water, owing to which spraying of chemical pesticides is very limited. The results of this study provide important inputs for the development of environment-friendly control methods.