GALL MIDGE IN PADDY

GALL MIDGE IN PADDY

Gall midge: Orseolia oryzae

Symptoms of damage:

  • Maggot feeds at the base of the growing shoot.
  • Feeding causes formation of a tube like gall that is similar to “onion leaf” or “Silver-shoot”.
  • Infested tillers produce no panicles.

Identification of Pest:

  • Egg: The fly lays elongate, cylindrical, shinning white or red or pinkish eggs singly or in clusters (2-6) at the base of the leaves.
  • Maggot: Maggot is 1 mm long after hatching with pointed anterior end. It creeps down the sheath and enters the growing bud. An oval chamber is formed round the site of feeding.
  • Pupa: At the time of emergence the pupa wriggles up the tube with the help of antennal horn to the tip of the silver shoot and projects half way out.
  • Adult: Fly is yellowish brown or orange and mosquito like. The male is ash grey in colour. Adults feed on dewdrops.

Management:

ETL: 10% silver shoots

  • Release Platygaster oryzae parasitised galls at 1/10 sq.m on 10 days after transplanting (DAT).
  • Harvest the crop and plough immediately.
  • Remove the alternate hosts and adopt early planting.
  • Optimum recommendation of potash fertilizer.
  • Setup infra red light trap and monitor the adult fliesSpray any one of the following insectcides
  • Phosalone 35 EC 600 ml/ac
  • Carbosulfan 25% EC 320-400 ml/ac

FAQs:

1.What is a gall midge, and why is it a problem for paddy farmers?

Gall midge is a pest that damages paddy by forming galls or "silver shoots," reducing yield. It's a major concern for farmers in wetland rice areas.

2.How can I identify gall midge infestation in my paddy field?

Look for stunted plants and tubular "silver shoots" replacing tillers. Infestation is often seen during the early growth stages.

3. When is the best time to monitor for gall midge in paddy?

 Start monitoring during the seedling and tillering stages, especially after rains, as gall midge thrives in moist conditions.

4.What are some effective cultural practices to control gall midge?

Use resistant varieties, early planting, and proper drainage to prevent stagnant water in fields. These steps reduce the pest's breeding habitat.

5.Are there any natural predators of gall midge?

Yes, predators like spiders and parasitoid wasps help control gall midge populations. Encourage these by maintaining biodiversity in your field.

 

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