Page 66 - Agriculture_Form_3

Agriculture for Secondary Schools

the plants. The pest can be controlled by planting pest-resistant varieties and
applying chemical insecticides. Figure 4.7 shows a green leafhopper on a paddy
plant.

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Figure 4.7: Green leafhopper of the paddy plant
Source: IRRI

Rice weevil: Rice weevil is a key postharvest pest of rice/paddy. The weevils bore
into stored rice/paddy grains, causing weight loss, contamination with powdery
residues, and decreased seed viability. Dry and store paddy/rice properly in
airtight containers to prevent infestations. With the guidance of an agriculture
extension expert, insecticides can be applied to stored grains for protection.
Figure 4.8 shows green Rice weevils in rice grain.

Figure 4.8: Rice weevil in rice grains

Rice hispa: The Rice hispa is a damaging pest of a paddy crop. The adult insects
feed on the leaves, causing silvery streaks, while the larvae burrow into the leaf
surface, reducing the plant’s photosynthetic capacity and leading to lower yields.
Effective control involves regular monitoring, use of resistant varieties, and
application of insecticides where necessary. Figure 4.9 shows rice hispa and its
damage on the paddy plant.

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