Monitora Milho reports a 40% drop in leafhoppers in Santa Catarina.

The Monitora Milho SC Program identified a reduction of over 40% in the number of corn leafhoppers in Santa Catarina's crops. The survey took place between January 19th and 26th. The numbers were released today. The comparison considers the previous week. The state recorded an average of 55 insects per trap.

The result coincides with crops in the harvesting phase and with new plantings of the second crop. According to researcher Maria Cristina Canale, from Epagri/Cepaf, the initial management adopted by farmers contributed to the reduction of the insect population in the newly sown areas.

Despite the decrease, the program remains vigilant. Analyses indicated high infectivity in leafhoppers collected from all regions of the state. Pathogens causing corn stunt and viral diseases appeared in all samples. Maria Cristina recommends chemical management during the vegetative phase, especially when the plants have four or five leaves. This practice reduces and controls the population of harmful insects.

The program also provides guidance on machinery adjustments and transportation precautions. This measure prevents grain loss and the formation of volunteer corn, which serves as shelter and food for leafhoppers. Planting new areas next to mature crops also deserves attention. The insects migrate to newer plantings in search of more tender tissues.

The Monitora Milho SC program collects and publishes weekly data from 55 corn farms distributed throughout Santa Catarina. This information allows the production sector to track the evolution of leafhopper populations and associated infections.