African Entomology (2007) 15, 204-208

M.T. Smith, O.L. Kvedaras and M.G. Keeping (2007)
A novel method to determine larval mandibular wear of the African stalk borer, Eldana saccharina Walker (Lepidoptera : Pyralidae)
African Entomology 15 (1), 204-208
Abstract: Resistance of sugarcane to Eldana saccharina, an important pest in South Africa, can be improved by silicon fertilization. In this connection a method for measuring the wear of larval mandibles has been developed, which could indicate the effect of such a resistance mechanism. The method involves scanning electron micrographs of the mouthparts and an equations reflecting the wear of the chewing edge.
(The abstract is excluded from the Creative Commons licence and has been copied with permission by the publisher.)
Link to article at publishers website
Database assignments for author(s): Olivia L Reynolds, Malcolm G. Keeping

Research topic(s) for pests/diseases/weeds:
resistance/tolerance/defence of host

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Pest and/or beneficial records:

Beneficial	Pest/Disease/Weed	Crop/Product	Country	Quarant.
	Eldana saccharina	Sugarcane (Saccharum officinarum)	South Africa