Evaluation of some safe alternative agents against the pink stem borer, Sesamia cretica Lederer infesting sugarcane at Sohag governorate, Egypt

Abstract

Some different control methods, mechanical, biological and four plant extracts were tested individually against the pink stem borer, Sesamia critica Lederer (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) in both plant and ratoon crops of sugarcane during 2018 and 2019 at Sohag governorate, Egypt. Data were recorded on the basis of the percent infestation (dead hearts) of S. critica from April to June, while the infestation reduction percentage and population density were recorded based on the percent of infestation. The results showed that, all the control methods significantly reduced borer infestation as compared with control plots. Data demonstrated that water extracts of marjoram and rosemary achieved the lowest infestation (2.18 - 3.02%) and (1.42 – 2.00%), while the highest infestation was recorded in biological control treatment (18.00 – 13.47%) in two seasons 2018 and 2019 respectively. These results could be used in integrated pest management (IPM) programs for the pink stem borer, Sesamia critica control in sugarcane.