The Status of Eldana Saccharina (lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in the South African Sugar Industry Based on Regular Survey Data

Local Pest, Disease and Variety Control Committee (LPD&VCC) Eldana saccharina survey records from 2001 to 2003 were analysed to investigate the pest status of this stalk borer in the South African sugarcane industry. Percentage stalks damaged, percentage stalk length red and numbers of larvae per 100 stalks varied in different mill areas, thus confirming previously published patterns. Furthermore, damage levels were higher in the coastal than the inland regions. Higher levels of damage were correlated with older cane, and certain varieties suffered more damage than others. Infestations were lower in small-scale than commercial grower sectors. Higher levels of damage were associated with increased nitrogen applied to fields. An estimated economic injury level is given.