Pests and Diseases of Some Exotic and Endemic Bamboo Species in the Cordillera Region

Baldo and Tangan (DENR-CAR) surveyed, collected, and identified pests and diseases affecting endemic and exotic bamboo species in five provinces in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR).

Findings

• The most prevalent insect pest observed was the aphid (Psudoregma bambucicola). The hosts of this insect were Dendrocalamus asper, Bambusa vulgaris, Dinochloa spp., B. toltoides, Dendrocalamus latiflorus, and Nastus elatus.
• Other insect pests observed were planthopper (Purchita puscovenosa), leaf roller (Pelopideas mathias), tusock moth (Lymantria lunata), grasshopper (Locusta migratoria), and mealybug (Planococus lilacimus).
• Mites (Aponychus corpuze) and rodents (Rattus spp.) were likewise observed.
• Diseases observed were culm blight, leaf spot, leaf rust, softy molds, tar spot, and shoot rot. Diseases were prevalent during the rainy season when the condition is conducive for fungal growth.
• With regard to severity of damage, the diseases observed were characterized as minor to moderate.

Source: PCARRD, 2003. Highlights 2002, Los Baños, Laguna, 214p.