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Integrated Approach to the Control of the Sorghum Shootfly

An integrated approach to the management of the sorghum shootfly (to keep its population below economic injury level) has been a major thrust of sorghum research workers during the last one and a half decades. The necessary foundation has been laid by detailed studies on the biology of the pest and a fairly thorough understanding of the effect of different ecological factors on the shootfly population. Based on seasonal incidence studies, sowing immediately after the onset of monsoon has proved to be effective for avoiding shootfly damage.A large number of high yielding and shootfly-resistant derivatives have been developed by crossing agronomically desirable exotic lines with identified resistant sources. The new hybrids and varieties released recently possess low to moderate levels of resistance.Parasites and predators affecting different stages of the shootfly have been identified but utilization of these natural enemies for the biological control of the pest is yet to be undertaken.Carbofuran seed treatment has proved to be highly effective for protecting sorghum from shootfly damage. Some other insecticides have also been found to be promising.Based on the control methods available at present, an integrated package has been recommended for implementation in traditional sorghum growing areas of the country.