Empoasca devastans Distant

Description & Identification

Small, fragile species. Length of male 4.50—5.00 mm., female 5.00 mm. (Nielson, 1968)General colour yellow. Crown yellow with two black spots on anterior margin; pronotum orange yellow; elytra light yellow with two black spots distad of middle.(Nielson, 1968)Pygofer in lateral aspect about as long as wide, ventral margin with distinct long spine extending posterodorsad beyond dorsal margin of pygofer; aedeagus in lateral aspect with long basal process; aedeagal shaft curved, short, attenuated apically; gonopore apical; style in dorsal aspect simple, lateral margin of apices serrate; female seventh sternum in ventral aspect with caudal margin convergent apically. (Nielson, 1968)This species is similar to papayae in genital characteristics and can be distinguished by the male pygofer with a long, ventral, spinelike process.(Nielson 1968)

Biology & Ecology

This species is a principal pest of cotton, and biological studies have been largely conducted in association with this plant. In 1940 Husain and Lal (380) conducted detailed studies on the species in association with cotton. The species also bred on holly-hock, castor plant, brinjal, potato, bhindi (Hibiscus esculentus L.),and ban kapos (H. vitifolius L.). (Nielson, 1968)

Worldwide Distribution

This species is common in many areas of India (Afzal and Ghani 1953 [6]). It has been reported from Burma (Mathur 1953 [499]). (Nielson, 1968)

Vector Status

Thomas and Krishnaswami (784) first reported in 1939 this species as a vector of little leaf of brinjal (eggplant). However, only one of nine plants tested became diseased. There are no records confirming transmission, and it is unlikely that the Species will become important as a vector owing to its association with cotton.(Nielson 1968)

Plant Diseases