He National Agri-Food Health and Quality Service (SENASA) authorized three insecticides intended for the control of “chicharrita”, an insect vector of Spiroplasma, which causes “stunting of corn.” This measure responds to the urgent need to strengthen crop protection and mitigate the devastating effects of this pest on agricultural production.
In this sense, SENASA prioritized the evaluation of the procedures for the expansion of use of Expedition, Fortenza seedbed and Verdavis products.
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Meanwhile, these insecticides already had registration in the Directorate of Agrochemicals and Biologicals of the national organization, which expedited the authorization process and allowed its rapid implementation in the field.
Likewise, SENASA’s decision is in line with the request made by the agricultural industry “to find effective solutions, protect crops and guarantee food security in Argentina.” From the organization, they indicated that with this measure they hope counter the threat represented by the corn pest and minimize damage caused to farmers and the country’s agricultural economy.
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In this context, the authorization of these phytosanitary products provides agricultural producers with a broader range of alternatives to control the pest, thus strengthening comprehensive crop management strategies, they explained.
Corn crop affected by the “leafhopper”. (Photo: BCCBA).
Consequently, the “chicharrita” of the cornscientifically known as Dalbulus maydis, is a sucking insect with a remarkable reproductive capacity. In addition to directly affecting corn crops, this pest can transmit various viral and bacterial diseasesBeing the Spiroplasma the causal agent of the feared “stunting of corn”.
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However, the damage caused by this disease was severe in different provinces in central and northern Argentina during the current agricultural season. Faced with this panorama, joint work began between rural entities and representatives of the national government.
Finally, given the presence and spread of this pest, the SENASA provided a direct communication channel to provide additional information or questions on the topic. Agricultural producers and other interested parties can contact the email [email protected] for advice and guidance on the management and control of corn leafhopper in your crops.
