Notice allocates R$4 million for research on leafhoppers

SENAR-PR has an open call for selection of projects for scientific research on the corn leafhopper (Dalbulus maidis). Until August 8, research institutions in Paraná can send their study proposals related to monitoring, evaluating the reactions of corn cultivars and the application of pesticides to combat the pest. Up to R$4 million will be allocated to the approved proposals, which will be announced on August 17th.

Notice: to check the full notice, click here.

Diseases caused by the corn leafhopper have systematically caused losses to rural producers in Paraná in recent years, which has raised alarm throughout the countryside. “The FAEP/SENAR-PR System has been working to alert farmers about the need to pay attention to this problem. We created a booklet guiding producers, we are constantly updating ourselves with the Technical Commission for Cereals, Fibers and Oilseeds on the problem and proposing actions that aim to reduce the damage caused by this pest”, highlights the president of the FAEP/SENAR-PR System, Ágide Meneguette.

The notice is part of the initiatives foreseen in the Paraná Network for Support to Agricultural Research and Applied Training, an integrated research, development and technological innovation program with a local scope. The network follows the guidelines of the Management Committee of the Paraná Agro and Applied Training Network, established by Decree 2.475/2015. The objective of this entity is to consolidate Paraná's competence in the development of Agribusiness.

In total, the notice for studies on leafhoppers has three thematic axes that guide the development of studies. The first is classified as monitoring leafhoppers and pathogens of the corn stunt complex; the second is called evaluations of the reactions of corn cultivars (hybrids and varieties); and the third will address the effectiveness of the application of synthetic and biological insecticides in controlling Dalbulus maidis.

Proposals must include work plans of up to 38 months, with grants to researchers for up to 36 months, counting from the signing of the term by those selected. Grants (from scientific initiation to postdoctoral studies) and other expenses directly linked to the research project may be included as items covered by the notice.

Primer

The FAEP/SENAR-PR System prepared a booklet that addresses the problem of the Corn Leafhopper in Paraná. Developed together with Embrapa Milho e Sorgo, the material provides practical guidance that helps farmers identify and control the insect in a didactic way. The publication also includes photos that exemplify the symptoms caused by diseases transmitted by the corn leafhopper. To access the full material, click here.