Brazilian Association requests renewal of phytosanitary emergency of corn earworm

On account of corn earworms infestation, the Association of Soybean Growers of Piauí, in Northeastern Brazil, requested a renewal of the phytosanitary emergency status. If Brazil's Ministry of Agricultural approves, farmers will be able to use products such as the emamectin benzoate on an emergency basis. Last year, several states have extended the phytosanitary emergency status for corn earworm control, including  Mato Grosso, Minais Gerais and Bahia.

 

According to the director of the Sustainability Commission of the association, Emiliano Mellis, the drought will generate losses of 15% to 30% on soybean, reaching 70% in some areas. The director tells that between December 31 and January 5, rains were weak, scattered, and irregular.

 

Mellis also says that, besides the earworm, the soybean looper and the velvetbean caterpillar are increasing in population. According to him, the infestation is not on critical levels and "it is possible to control, once the regularity of rains return". He also mentioned that the borer caterpillar, which attacks mostly new and sandy areas. "The control of this pest is very tough, and rain is the best control method for it. There are areas with plant mortality rate of over 70% ".