Mango leafhopper

The mango leafhopper (Idioscopus clypealis) is a significant insect pest belonging to the order Hemiptera and the family Cicadellidae. It is widely recognized as one of the most destructive pests affecting mango production, capable of causing total crop failure in infested orchards.

This species primarily feeds on the mango tree (Mangifera indica). Adults and nymphs congregate on inflorescences and tender shoots, extracting sap. This feeding activity disrupts the plant's metabolic processes and directly impacts the formation and development of fruits.

The biological cycle of this pest is rapid, often synchronized with the flowering stage of the mango tree. Females lay eggs inside the tender tissues of flower stalks. Under warm and humid environmental conditions, the population can grow exponentially within a very short period.

The damage caused by Idioscopus clypealis is twofold. Direct sap extraction leads to the drying and dropping of flowers. Furthermore, the excretion of honeydew promotes the growth of sooty mold, which covers leaves and flowers, preventing photosynthesis and further debilitating the tree.

• Regular monitoring with yellow sticky traps to detect early infestations.
• Pruning of dense canopy branches to improve air circulation and light.
• Application of systemic insecticides during the pre-flowering stage.
• Conservation of natural predators such as spiders and predatory wasps.
• Sanitary practices to remove infested shoots during the off-season.