The scientific name *Dicladispa armigera* (Olivier) refers to a species of beetle belonging to the family Chrysomelidae. This pest is commonly found in rice fields located in the southern regions of Liaoning Province, China.
This insect has a broad host range, including rice, wheat, sugarcane, millet, and reeds, making it a significant agricultural concern in several regions.
The larvae of *D. armigera* feed within the leaf tissue, causing damage that results in bluish-white spots on the leaves. Severe infestations can significantly hinder plant growth and development.
Morphologically, the adult beetles measure 4–5 mm in length and have a striking blue-black color with a metallic sheen. The prothorax features two knob-like protrusions, while the elytra are lined with spines—two prominent ones at the rear. The eggs are oval, milky white, and covered with a yellow-brown gelatinous substance. The last instar larvae are about 5–6 mm long, with two rows of knobs along the mid-thoracic to seventh abdominal segments and triangular structures on either side of the abdomen. They are flat and oval, ranging in color from milky to dark yellow.
In terms of life habits, this species exhibits different generations depending on the region. For example, in Jiangxi, Hunan, Hubei, and Zhejiang provinces, there are three generations per year, while in Guangdong, there may be as many as four to six. Adults overwinter in soil crevices, under stones, or among weeds and the leaf sheaths of crops. In early spring, they become active and move into wheat fields before migrating to rice paddies. Eggs are laid within the leaf tissues, approximately 12–18 cm from the tip of rice leaves.
Newly hatched larvae quickly burrow into the leaf tissue, feeding on the mesophyll. They can consume up to two to three leaves during their larval stage. Most larvae move during the early morning hours. The larval period lasts 10–15 days, while the pupal stage takes 4–9 days. Adults are primarily active at night, early morning, or during rainy weather. Their lifespan varies: 30–40 days for the first and second generations, and up to 6–7 months in winter.
For prevention and control, several measures are recommended. First, it's important to remove weeds around the fields and ditches to reduce breeding sites. During the adult emergence period, flooding the rice field with water can help trap adults floating on the surface. These can then be collected and destroyed by burning. Additionally, when adult populations peak, spraying 50% emulsifiable concentrate of Acephate at a rate of 800 times dilution per 667 m² is effective. Another option is to apply 90% trichlorfon crystals at a dilution of 900–1000 times during the larval incubation period of each generation. These methods can significantly reduce the impact of this pest on crops.
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