• Plants become unhealthy stunted and yellow
• The leaves wither from top downwards
• Panicle formation is inhibited and the plants die if attack is severe.
• Honeydew secreted by the bug causes growth of sooty mould on leaves.
• Midribs turn red due to egg-laying and may dry up subsequently.

Identification of the pest:

• Egg : Laid inside the leaf tissue and covered with a white waxy substance
• Adult : Yellowish brown to dark brown with translucent wings

Management:

• Spray dimethoate 50 EC @ 1000 ml/ha