Varietal resistance in the management of the spittlebug Aeneolamia varia (F.) (Hemiptera: Cercopidae) Measurement method in sugarcane.

Introduction

In June 2007, the attack of the spittlebug Aeneolamia varia was detected on sugarcane in the Cauca River Valley, Colombia, which represents a serious threat to the crop's productivity due to the significant economic losses caused by this pest, as has occurred in countries in Central and South America.
In light of this situation, a comprehensive insect management program was initiated, which includes biological control using the fungus Metarhizium anisopliae (Metsch.) (Sorokin), the use of yellow sticky traps and the implementation of cultural practices. At the same time, the use of entomopathogenic nematodes and varietal resistance have been investigated.
This publication presents the generalities of the method used by Cenicaña for the evaluation of the response of sugarcane varieties to the attack of A. varia, and its characterization with respect to varietal resistance.

Varietal resistance
It is defined as the sum of genetically inherited qualities that make a plant less affected by certain factors (including insects) than another plant without these characteristics (Smith, 2005).