Handbook for the Identification of Leafhoppers and Planthoppers of Rice

Rice is the most important cereal grown in tropical countries and sapsucking leafhoppers and planthoppers (Homoptera: Auchenorryncha) reduce yields either by direct feeding or by transmitting virus and virus-like pathogens. Effective rice pest management requires the accurate identification of any pest species and this handbook provides keys to identify over 70 leafhopper and planthopper species recorded in the major rice growing regions. All the major pest species are included, as well as others that are frequently found but not yet considered important. A comprehensive account of all these species with descriptions, diagnoses, distributions and notes on biology is given, as well a key to nymphal stages of common Asian species and details of the separation of different instars. An introduction to the morphology and taxonomic grouping of the Auchenorryncha and four pages of colour plates are also included, and the volume is completed by a comprehensive and wide-ranging bibliography.