Mite infestation and sheath rot spread in Kuttanad’s second-crop paddy fields
Farmers in the Kuttanad region are facing a dual threat from rice leaf mite infestations and sheath rot disease in their second-crop paddy fields. Agricultural experts have confirmed the spread and are advising farmers on monitoring and pesticide application to prevent yield loss.
Why it matters
The infestation threatens food security and the livelihoods of local farmers, necessitating urgent agricultural intervention.
Mite infestation and sheath rot spread in Kuttanad’s second-crop paddy fields left A plant affected by rice leaf mite infestation. https://th-i.thgim.com/public/news/national/kerala/l0vcfv/article71592278.ece/alternates/FREE_1200/160319.jpg KOLLAM Farmers in Kuttanad region are growing increasingly concerned as a widespread rice leaf mite infestation, locally known as ‘Karaval’, affects second-crop paddy fields. The infestation was confirmed following a comprehensive field inspection conducted jointly by officials from the M.S. Swaminathan Rice Research Station, Mankombu, and the Kerala Centre for Pest Management (KCPM). Experts reported that the current weather pattern characterised by hot daylight hours coupled with intermittent rainfall has created ideal conditions for the rapid proliferation and spread of these mites. The condition is caused by a species of mite scientifically named Oligonychus oryzae. Under the present climatic conditions, these pests lodge themselves inside the leaf sheaths of paddy plants, sucking the sap and rapidly multiplying.
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