Parafilm Sachet for Measuring Honeydew Excretion by Nilaparvata lugens on Rice1

Abstract

A parafilm sachet is described for the collection and quantitative determination of honeydew excreted by a planthopper, Nilaparvata lugens (Stal), feeding on rice. The quantity of honeydew per insect per 24 h was used as a parameter in comparing the insect’s feeding activity on suscepttble and resistant rice varieties. The technique proved to be useful for determining the level of resistance of rice varieties to three N. lugens biotypes and is applicable to other sucking insects that feed on rice and other crop plants.