Potato Leafhopper (Empoasca fabae) | Major Pest Threatening Leafy Crops
Potato Leafhopper (Empoasca fabae)
A Silent Pest That Stunts Growth and Slashes Yields
The Potato Leafhopper (Empoasca fabae) may appear harmless at first glance due to its tiny size, but it is a serious pest that threatens a wide range of economically important crops. From potatoes and soybeans to okra and solanaceous plants, this insect damages plants by piercing leaf tissue and sucking sap—leading to wilting, yellowing, curling, and stunted growth.
Basic Information
- Common Name: Potato Leafhopper
- Scientific Name: Empoasca fabae
- Family: Cicadellidae
- Order: Hemiptera
Morphology & Biology
Body Length: 3.0–3.3 mmColor: Pale green with an iridescent sheen
Distinct Features:
- 6–8 white spots on the pronotum
- White "H"-shaped marking between the head and wing base
- Reddish eyes
Wings:
- Forewings: Hemelytra (hardened base, transparent tips)
- Hindwings: Thin and membranous
Mouthparts: Piercing-sucking type
Legs:Front and middle legs for walking; hind legs adapted for jumping
Life Cycle (Incomplete Metamorphosis)
Egg Stage : Incubation: 7–10 days
Nymph Stage
- Undergoes 4 molts
- Duration: 11–19 days
Adult Stage : Average lifespan: ~14 days
Total life cycle: Approximately 30 daysHost Plants & Feeding Damage
Host Plant Families:
- Malvaceae: e.g., okra
- Solanaceae: e.g., potatoes
- Fabaceae: e.g., soybeans
Damage Symptoms:
- Both nymphs and adults pierce and suck sap from leaf tissue
- Reduces photosynthesis efficiency
- Causes leaf cupping, yellowing, crinkling, and stunting
- Leads to significant yield loss if left untreated
Geographic Distribution
Originally native to North America, the Potato Leafhopper has spread across Asia and Africa. It thrives in areas where crops like potatoes and soybeans are widely cultivated, especially in warm climates.
Control & Management Strategies
Targeted Insecticide Application
For Early Infestation: Carbaryl (Sevin 85% WP)
For Severe Outbreaks:
Synthetic Pyrethroids:
- Permethrin: 10 mL per 20 L of water
- Lambda-cyhalothrin: 7 mL per 20 L
- Cyfluthrin: 4 mL per 20 L
- Deltamethrin: 10 mL per 20 L
- Cypermethrin: 10 mL per 20 L
Usage Tips:
- Apply in the evening for maximum effectiveness
- Rotate insecticides to avoid resistance buildup
- Do not use the same chemical group more than 2–3 consecutive times
Post-Harvest Pruning
- Eliminates shelter for overwintering insects
- Increases the effectiveness of pesticide applications in the following season
Conclusion
Though often overlooked due to its small size, the Potato Leafhopper can inflict heavy losses on key crops like soybeans and potatoes. Understanding its life cycle and behavior allows farmers to develop a sustainable pest management plan, reducing both crop losses and reliance on chemical pesticides.
